White Bean & Bacon Soup - cooking recipe

Ingredients

1/2 lb bacon, cut in 1/2-inch pieces
1 cup celery, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
1 cup finely chopped onion
1 cup carrot, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
1 garlic clove, minced
1 (15 ounce) can small white beans, with liquid
1 large potato, cut in 1/4-inch cubes
2 cups chicken stock
salt & freshly ground black pepper

Preparation

In a large heavy saucepan, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from pan with a slotted spoon and set aside.
Pour off all except about 2 tablespoons of the bacon drippings.
Add onions, carrots, and celery to pan and saute, stirring frequently, until onions are translucent.
Add garlic and saute a few more minutes.
Add potatoes, beans, chicken stock, and reserved bacon.
Season to taste with salt and freshly ground pepper.
Bring to a boil; let boil for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Reduce heat to medium low. Cover and let simmer about 1 hour, stirring occasionally.