This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort food slow-simmered to perfection with smoky ham, tender beans, and aromatic herbs. The rich and flavorful broth creates a cozy, heartwarming dish that’s ideal for a chilly evening. Whether served with crusty bread or on its own, it’s a meal that satisfies every craving. Perfect for meal prep, this soup only gets better the next day as the flavors meld together. It’s a budget-friendly dish that transforms simple pantry staples into a nourishing, restaurant-quality meal. With each spoonful, you’ll experience deep, savory flavors that feel like a warm hug in a bowl!
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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1 lb dried great northern beans (or canned, drained)
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1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
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1 tbsp olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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6 cups chicken broth
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2 cups water
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1 bay leaf
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1 tsp dried thyme
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1/2 tsp smoked paprika
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Directions:
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If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse.
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5 minutes until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the ham bone (or diced ham), soaked beans, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika. Stir well.
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Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1.5–2 hours (or until beans are tender). Stir occasionally.
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If using a ham bone, remove it from the pot, shred any meat, and return the meat to the soup.
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Taste and season with salt and black pepper as needed.
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Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal per serving | Servings: 6 servings
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup: A Comforting Classic
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the warmth and heartiness of Ham and Bean Soup. This dish is a timeless classic, enjoyed in many households across generations. Whether served on a cold winter night or as a simple yet fulfilling meal for the family, this soup is packed with protein, fiber, and an abundance of rich flavors. The combination of smoky ham, tender beans, and a well-seasoned broth creates a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also provides a nourishing and wholesome experience.
Ham and Bean Soup is an excellent way to use up leftover ham, making it a practical and economical meal choice. It’s also a one-pot dish, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy a warm bowl of deliciousness with loved ones. This article will explore the origins, benefits, variations, and tips for making the perfect Ham and Bean Soup.
The Origins of Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and Bean Soup has roots in many cultures and cuisines. Historically, beans have been a staple in diets worldwide due to their affordability and nutritional value. The addition of ham, particularly in regions where pork is widely consumed, turned a simple bean soup into a more flavorful and hearty dish.
In the United States, Ham and Bean Soup is particularly popular in Southern and Midwestern cuisines, where ham hocks and smoked meats are commonly used to infuse dishes with depth and smokiness. It’s also a well-known dish in the Navy, often referred to as Navy Bean Soup, as it was traditionally served to sailors due to its high protein content and ease of preparation.
Why You Should Make This Soup
1. Rich in Nutrients
Ham and Bean Soup is packed with protein from both the ham and beans, making it a satisfying meal that keeps you full for hours. Beans are also an excellent source of fiber, which aids in digestion and supports heart health.
2. Budget-Friendly and Sustainable
This dish is perfect for repurposing leftover ham, reducing food waste while creating something delicious. Beans are an inexpensive pantry staple, making this soup an economical option for families looking to stretch their grocery budget.
3. Perfect for Meal Prep
One of the best things about Ham and Bean Soup is that it tastes even better the next day! The flavors meld together beautifully over time, making this an ideal meal to prepare in advance. It also freezes well, so you can store portions for later use.
4. Customizable and Versatile
From different types of beans to various herbs and spices, there are endless ways to make this soup your own. Whether you prefer a thick and creamy texture or a lighter broth, this recipe is highly adaptable to personal preferences.
Variations of Ham and Bean Soup
One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. Below are some popular variations that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences:
1. Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup
For a hands-off approach, you can prepare this soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients, set it on low for 6–8 hours, and let the flavors develop slowly. This method allows the beans to become incredibly tender while absorbing all the delicious flavors from the ham and seasonings.
2. Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup
If you’re short on time, an Instant Pot can drastically reduce cooking time. Pressure cooking the beans speeds up the process, making this a convenient option for busy weeknights.
3. Creamy Ham and Bean Soup
For a richer texture, you can blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in. This creates a creamy, velvety consistency without the need for dairy.
4. Spicy Ham and Bean Soup
If you enjoy a bit of heat, consider adding diced jalapeños, red pepper flakes, or a dash of hot sauce to elevate the flavors.
5. Vegetable-Packed Ham and Bean Soup
Boost the nutritional value by adding extra vegetables such as kale, spinach, bell peppers, or potatoes. This not only enhances the flavor but also adds more vitamins and minerals to the dish.
Tips for Making the Best Ham and Bean Soup
To ensure you get the most flavorful and satisfying soup, here are some expert tips:
1. Use a Ham Bone for Maximum Flavor
If you have a leftover ham bone, use it in your soup to create a deeper, richer broth. The bone releases collagen and flavors into the soup, enhancing its taste and texture.
2. Soak Dried Beans Overnight
While you can use canned beans for convenience, soaking dried beans overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. It also makes them easier to digest by reducing certain complex sugars.
3. Sauté Your Aromatics
Cooking the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a bit of olive oil before adding the liquid enhances their natural sweetness and deepens the overall flavor of the soup.
4. Season Gradually
Because ham can be salty, it’s best to add salt sparingly and adjust the seasoning at the end. Taste the soup before adding extra salt to avoid overpowering the dish.
5. Let It Simmer for Depth of Flavor
The longer the soup simmers, the better the flavors develop. If time allows, let it cook on low heat for an extended period to enhance its richness.
Serving Suggestions
Ham and Bean Soup is delicious on its own, but pairing it with the right sides can elevate your meal even further. Here are some great options:
- Crusty Bread – A warm, crusty loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Cornbread – The slightly sweet flavor of cornbread complements the smokiness of the soup.
- Green Salad – A light and fresh side salad balances out the richness of the dish.
- Pickles or Relish – A tangy pickle or sweet relish can add an interesting contrast to the soup’s hearty flavors.
Conclusion:
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup is more than just a simple meal it’s a comforting, nutritious, and satisfying dish that brings families together. Whether made from scratch with dried beans and a ham bone or quickly prepared with canned beans and diced ham, this soup is adaptable, easy to make, and packed with rich flavors.
Perfect for meal prep, budget-friendly, and endlessly customizable, it’s a must-have in any home cook’s repertoire. Whether you enjoy it on a cozy night in or serve it at a gathering, one thing is certain: this soup will always leave you feeling warm and satisfied.
So, the next time you find yourself with leftover ham, don’t let it go to waste turn it into a delicious bowl of Hearty Ham and Bean Soup and enjoy a meal that’s both nourishing and flavorful!
