Bean and "Bacon" Soup

1. In a pan over medium heat, heat olive oil. Add onion and carrot; saute until softened.
2. Add tomato and veggie bacon; cook for 1 minute while stirring.
3. Stir in beans, broth and thyme; bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Use a hand mixer or blender to mix the soup to desired consistency. Heat through and serve.
I blended this soup enough to give it a thicker consistency, but not completely pureed so it was still somewhat chunky. I modified the recipe from one I found on www.thehawaiichannel.com. It has an amazing flavour!