INGREDIENTS
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10 oz hardwood/naturally smoked bacon (about 9 - 10 slices), diced in small pieces
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1 1/2 cups chopped yellow onions (1 medium)
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1 1/2 cups chopped carrots (about 3 large)
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1 1/2 cups chopped celery (about 3 stalks)
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3 cloves garlic, minced (1 Tbsp)
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5 1/2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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2 1/2 Tbsp tomato paste
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1 1/2 tsp sugar
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2 tsp chopped fresh thyme (optional)
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3 (15 oz) cans navy beans, drained and rinsed
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Salt and freshly ground black pepper
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5 (1 oz) sticks string cheese, shredded (yes you saw that right, it's the best with this soup!)*
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Chopped fresh parsley, for serving (optional)