How to Make French Soup with Duck and Beans

When it comes to French cuisine, few dishes are as beloved as a hearty soup featuring duck and beans. This savory combination not only warms the heart but also delights the palate with its rich flavors and textures. Below, we will explore a simple yet delicious recipe to create this classic French soup.

Ingredients for Duck and Bean Soup

To make a flavorful French soup with duck and beans, you will need the following ingredients:

• 2 duck legs (preferably duck confit for added flavor)
• 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or great northern beans), soaked overnight
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken or duck broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 sprigs of thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Steps to Prepare Duck and Bean Soup

Follow these easy steps to create your delicious French duck and bean soup:

1. Prepare the Beans

Start by soaking the dried beans in water overnight. This will help them cook evenly and reduce cooking time. The next day, drain and rinse the beans before using them.

2. Cook the Duck

In a large pot, add some duck fat or oil over medium heat. If you are using duck confit, remove the skin and set it aside. Sear the duck legs for about 5-7 minutes on each side until golden brown. Once done, remove them from the pot and set aside.

3. Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Then, add the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ingredients

Return the duck legs to the pot, followed by the soaked beans, broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the duck is falling off the bone.

5. Shred the Duck

Once cooked, remove the duck legs from the soup and let them cool slightly. Shred the meat using two forks, discarding the bones and any excess fat. Return the shredded duck to the pot and stir to combine.

6. Final Seasoning

Taste and adjust the seasoning of the soup with more salt and pepper if necessary. If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the soup.

7. Serve the Soup

ladle the hot duck and bean soup into bowls. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley and serve with crusty French bread for a complete meal.

Conclusion

This French soup with duck and beans is a comforting dish that's perfect for any occasion. Enjoy its robust flavors and heartiness on chilly evenings or as a delightful centerpiece during gatherings. With its rich history in French cuisine, this soup will surely impress your family and friends.