A hearty and flavorful soup inspired by Cajun cuisine, perfect for a comforting meal.
Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat and add the diced bacon.
Cook the bacon until crispy to render out the fat, which will add flavor to the soup.
Add the chopped carrot, celery, green pepper, and minced garlic to the pot and sauté until softened.
Stir frequently to prevent the garlic from burning, which can make it bitter.
Stir in the diced ham and sliced smoked sausage, cooking until lightly browned.
Browning the meats enhances their flavor and adds depth to the soup.
Drain and rinse the canned navy beans, then add them to the pot along with the chicken broth and diced tomatoes.
Rinsing the beans removes excess sodium and improves their texture.
Season the soup with hot sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Simmer for 30 minutes.
Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go to achieve the desired spice level.
Serve the soup over cooked brown rice and garnish with sliced green onions.
Use freshly cooked rice for the best texture, or reheat leftover rice before serving.