Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup is the type of dish that brings back memories of home and warmth. It’s one of those recipes that can mend the heart and fill the stomach at the same time. With its rich flavors and hearty texture, Ham and Bean Soup is perfect for chilly days or any time you want a comforting meal. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday feast or starting fresh, this soup has a way of wrapping you in its cozy embrace. Plus, it’s packed with nutrients from the beans and veggies, making it not just delicious but also a healthy choice. Easy to prepare, it’s an excellent way to bring everyone to the table, sharing chat and laughter over steaming bowls. So let’s get started on this delightful journey to make a perfect Ham and Bean Soup that’s sure to become a regular in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Ham and Bean Soup

This Ham and Bean Soup is comfort food at its best. It warms you from the inside out while offering a variety of textures and tastes that make each spoonful enjoyable. One fantastic aspect is its ability to use leftover ham, which helps reduce waste and adds great flavor. Not only is this soup satisfying, but it also includes nutrient-rich ingredients such as beans and vegetables.

When you make this Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll find that the preparation is simple, yet the flavor is rich and fulfilling. Plus, it’s versatile enough to enjoy throughout the year—comforting on chilly days, yet light enough for warmer months too.

What is a Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup is a traditional dish enjoyed across many cultures. It typically combines ham, beans, and vegetables into a hearty and filling meal. The recipe is not just about satisfying hunger; it also offers significant nutritional benefits thanks to the beans and various veggies. Beans provide a great source of protein and fiber, while vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. This soup stands out as a delightful option for anyone looking for something comforting and nourishing.

Ingredients for Ham and Bean Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is crucial for making an excellent Ham and Bean Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 2 cups diced ham (leftover or pre-cooked)
• 1 cup dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Having these ingredients ready will make the process smooth and enjoyable.

Instructions for Ham and Bean Soup

Soak the Beans

First things first, you need to soak the dried navy beans overnight in plenty of water. This step is essential as it helps them cook faster and become tender. After soaking, be sure to drain the beans before adding them to the soup pot. This ensures that you get the best texture and flavor in your final dish.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a little olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the finely chopped onions and sauté them until they turn translucent, which should take about 5 minutes. Next, add in the chopped carrots and diced celery, cooking them together for an additional 5 minutes. Just when the aroma starts making you hungry, stir in the minced garlic and cook everything for about 30 seconds, allowing those lovely scents to fill your kitchen.

Combine the Ingredients

Add the soaked navy beans and diced ham to your pot. Now it’s time to pour in the low-sodium chicken broth, and then toss in the bay leaves and thyme. Bring this mixture to a boil. Once it’s bubbling away, reduce the heat so it can simmer gently for about 1 hour. This allows the beans to become tender and for all the delicious flavors to meld together beautifully.

Final Seasoning

Before you’re ready to serve, take a moment to taste your soup. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your preference. Don’t forget to pull out the bay leaves; they’ve done their job of adding flavor but can be unpleasant to bite into.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to enjoying your Ham and Bean Soup, there are plenty of delightful ways to serve it:

• Serve it with crusty bread or even cornbread to soak up that flavorful broth.
• Pair it with a simple green salad to add a fresh element.
• Garnish your soup with some fresh herbs, like parsley, for a bright pop of color and extra flavor.

Tips for Success

To ensure your Ham and Bean Soup turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Make sure your beans are soaked well for that optimal tenderness.
• Adjust the seasoning gradually, tasting as you go for a well-balanced flavor.
• Store any leftovers in an airtight container for a quick meal later.

Variations

Want to switch things up? Here are a few variations you might like:

• Substitute different types of beans, such as black beans or pinto beans, for a unique flavor.
• Add vegetables like spinach or kale for a nutritious boost.
• If you fancy a little heat, consider adding a dash of cayenne pepper to spice things up!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftover soup, here’s how to store it:

• Refrigerate the soup for up to 5 days, making it easy for quick meals.
• Freeze portions for up to 3 months, ensuring you have a comforting meal available whenever you need it.
• When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, taking care not to overcook it.

Pairing Ideas

Complete your meal with these delightful pairings:

• A side of garlic bread goes wonderfully with the soup.
• You could even pair it with a light, refreshing white wine for a delightful contrast.
• And for dessert? A slice of apple pie is a perfect finish to a comforting meal.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Canned beans work well for a quicker version of the recipe. Just rinse and add them during the last 20 minutes of cooking.

2. How can I thicken my ham and bean soup?
You can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender to achieve the desired consistency.

3. Is ham and bean soup gluten-free?
Yes, this soup is naturally gluten-free, as long as you use gluten-free broth and double-check your seasoning.

4. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Definitely! Simply follow the same steps, putting all the ingredients in a slow cooker, and let it cook on low for 6-8 hours.

5. What kind of ham works best in this recipe?
Leftover ham is perfect for this recipe, but you can also use pre-cooked ham or ham hocks to add extra flavor.

This Ham and Bean Soup recipe is truly more than just a meal; it’s an experience that invites warmth and comfort. With straightforward instructions and simple ingredients, it easily becomes a wonderful centerpiece for any gathering. Go ahead and make it for a cozy dinner that embraces everyone at the table. Enjoy this delightful dish!

More Easy Soups & Stews Recipes:

• Thai Peanut Chicken
• Easy Moroccan Lamb Stew

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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Ham and Bean Soup

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This Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with savory ham, tender beans, and nutritious vegetables, it’s a quick and hearty meal perfect for any time.

• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 cups diced ham (leftover or pre-cooked)
• 1 cup dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 medium carrots, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

• Soak the dried navy beans overnight and drain before use.
• Sauté chopped onions in olive oil until translucent. Add carrots and celery, cooking for 5 minutes.
• Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
• Add soaked beans and diced ham to the pot, along with chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
• Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour until beans are tender.
• Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper before serving.

Notes

Ensure beans are adequately soaked for proper texture.
Taste and adjust seasoning gradually for a well-balanced flavor.
Store leftovers in an airtight container; refrigerate or freeze for later meals.

• Author: Martha
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 1 hour
• Category: Soup
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2
• Sodium: 600
• Fat: 6
• Saturated Fat: 2
• Unsaturated Fat: 3
• Trans Fat: 0
• Carbohydrates: 36
• Fiber: 10
• Protein: 16
• Cholesterol: 30