Introduction
There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, hearty bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day. If you’re looking for a deliciously filling meal that’s packed with flavor, look no further than this Ham and Bean Soup recipe. Whether you’re craving a rich, savory dish for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this recipe will leave you satisfied. With tender chunks of ham, creamy beans, and a variety of vegetables, it’s a perfect blend of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weekdays or lazy weekends.
So, let’s dive into this Ham and Bean Soup recipe that will soon become a staple in your kitchen!
Table of Contents
What Is This Recipe?
Ham and Bean Soup is a classic, comforting dish known for its delicious blend of savory ham, creamy beans, and flavorful vegetables. This soup is not only rich in taste but also offers a satisfying balance of protein and fiber, making it a hearty and nutritious meal. Whether you’re using leftover ham or fresh ham, the slow-cooked flavors in this recipe are sure to impress.
This easy-to-make soup comes together with minimal effort, making it perfect for beginners and seasoned cooks alike. With ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, you’ll be able to enjoy a cozy meal without any hassle.
Essential Ingredients
To make a perfect Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients:
- Ham (diced): This is the star ingredient of the soup, adding rich flavor and a hearty texture.
- Beans (navy beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans): These beans are the perfect complement to the ham, providing fiber and creaminess.
- Carrots (chopped): Sweet and slightly crunchy, carrots enhance the flavor and texture of the soup.
- Celery (chopped): Celery adds a refreshing crunch and a slight earthy flavor to the mix.
- Onion (chopped): Onions bring a savory depth to the soup.
- Garlic (minced): Garlic is essential for its aromatic, savory kick.
- Chicken or vegetable broth: This liquid base gives the soup its deliciously rich and savory taste.
- Bay leaves: Add a subtle herbal note to the broth.
- Thyme (dried or fresh): This herb gives the soup a fragrant, earthy taste.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.
These ingredients will come together to create the perfect Ham and Bean Soup that’s flavorful, nutritious, and satisfying.
Alternative Ingredients
If you’d like to customize the soup based on your preferences or dietary restrictions, here are a few alternative ingredients you can use:
- Beans: Swap out navy beans for kidney beans, black beans, or cannellini beans if preferred.
- Broth: Use low-sodium or homemade broth to control the salt content.
- Ham: If you don’t have ham, you can substitute with turkey, smoked sausage, or even bacon for a slightly different flavor.
- Vegetables: Add other vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or bell peppers to make the soup more hearty.
- Herbs: If thyme isn’t your favorite, you can try rosemary or oregano for a different taste.
| Prep Time | Cook Time | Total Time | Servings | Yield |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10 minutes | 1 hour | 1 hour 10 minutes | 6 servings | 6 bowls |
Key Features
- Hearty and filling: Packed with protein from the ham and fiber from the beans.
- Easy to make: Requires only basic ingredients and minimal prep.
- Perfect for leftovers: The soup stores well in the fridge and can even be frozen for later.
- Versatile: Customizable with different vegetables, beans, and seasonings.
- Comforting and flavorful: Ideal for cold days when you need a warm meal.
Nutrition Facts
Here’s a look at the approximate nutrition breakdown per serving of Ham and Bean Soup:
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250-300 kcal |
| Protein | 20g |
| Carbohydrates | 35g |
| Dietary Fiber | 8g |
| Fat | 5g |
| Sodium | 800mg |
| Cholesterol | 30mg |
These numbers may vary depending on the specific ingredients you use, but overall, this Ham and Bean Soup is a great source of protein and fiber, with a reasonable calorie count.
Directions (Step-by-Step Guide to Making Ham and Bean Soup)
Making Ham and Bean Soup is a simple process that involves layering flavors, sautéing vegetables, and allowing the soup to simmer until everything comes together in a rich, hearty bowl of comfort. Here’s how to make it, step-by-step:
1. Prepare Your Ingredients
The first step in making Ham and Bean Soup is gathering and preparing all of your ingredients. This makes the cooking process smoother and ensures that everything is ready to go. Here’s what you need to do:
- Dice the ham: If you’re using leftover ham, simply cut it into bite-sized cubes. You can use a bone-in ham steak or pre-cooked ham. If you’re using a ham bone, make sure to remove the meat and chop it into small pieces.
- Chop the vegetables: You’ll need to chop carrots, celery, and onions. These vegetables form the aromatic base for the soup, adding natural sweetness and flavor.
- Mince the garlic: Garlic is essential for flavor, so be sure to mince it finely to release its savory aroma.
- Rinse the beans: If you’re using canned beans, drain and rinse them under cold water. This helps remove excess sodium and any starchy residue from the canning process. If you’re using dried beans, soak them overnight or follow the quick-soak method by boiling them for a few minutes, then letting them sit for an hour before draining.
Once everything is prepped, you’re ready to start cooking!
2. Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of olive oil or butter over medium heat. You want just enough to coat the bottom of the pot and prevent the vegetables from sticking.
Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. The goal here is to soften the vegetables and allow their natural sugars to caramelize slightly, which will enhance the flavor of your Ham and Bean Soup. The onions should become translucent, and the garlic will release its fragrant aroma.
Sautéing these ingredients also builds a savory foundation for the rest of the soup, so don’t rush this step. The smell will be inviting, and you’ll know it’s ready when the vegetables start to soften and the kitchen is filled with an amazing aroma.
3. Add the Ham and Beans
Now it’s time to add the heart of the soup: the ham. Stir in the diced ham and allow it to warm up with the vegetables for another 2-3 minutes. This step helps the ham release some of its juices, making the broth more flavorful.
Next, add the rinsed beans to the pot. You can use any beans you prefer, but navy beans, pinto beans, or great northern beans work best for this recipe. Beans are the perfect complement to the ham, adding both texture and nutritional value to the soup.
Give everything a good stir, ensuring that the ham and beans are evenly distributed among the sautéed vegetables.
4. Add the Broth and Seasonings
At this point, it’s time to add the liquids and seasonings to the pot. Pour in chicken or vegetable broth—enough to cover the ingredients by about an inch. The broth is the foundation of the soup, giving it the rich, savory flavor that will carry through the entire dish.
Now, it’s time to add some aromatics and seasoning. Toss in bay leaves and thyme, which will infuse the soup with depth and fragrance. Feel free to add other seasonings like oregano or rosemary if you want to customize the flavor.
Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that if you’re using store-bought broth or ham, these ingredients may already contain salt, so be careful not to overdo it. You can always taste and adjust the seasoning as the soup simmers.
5. Bring the Soup to a Boil and Simmer
Now it’s time to bring everything to a boil. Turn the heat up high and allow the soup to come to a gentle boil. Once it’s boiling, lower the heat to a simmer. At this point, you’ll want to cover the pot and let the soup cook on low heat for about 45 minutes to 1 hour.
This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together, and the beans will soften and absorb the flavors from the ham and herbs. The longer it simmers, the more flavorful it becomes, so don’t rush this part! If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender to create a creamier consistency.
During the simmering process, make sure to stir the soup occasionally to prevent anything from sticking to the bottom of the pot. Also, keep an eye on the liquid level—if it looks too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
6. Taste and Adjust Seasoning
After about an hour, check the soup for seasoning. Give it a taste and decide if it needs more salt, pepper, or any additional herbs. Since ham can be salty, it’s essential to taste as you go to avoid over-seasoning.
If you want a more flavorful punch, you can add a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to balance the richness of the ham and beans.
7. Serve and Enjoy
Once the soup is done, remove the bay leaves (they can be sharp, and no one wants to accidentally bite into one). Ladle the hot, hearty soup into bowls. You can serve it with a side of crusty bread for dipping, crackers for crunch, or even a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated cheese on top for added flavor and garnish.
This Ham and Bean Soup is perfect for a cozy meal on a cold day, and it also makes excellent leftovers. In fact, the flavors often improve the next day, so it’s an ideal soup for meal prep.
Final Thoughts
Making Ham and Bean Soup is a straightforward process that comes together easily with simple ingredients. By sautéing your vegetables, adding flavorful ham, and letting everything simmer, you’ll create a comforting and nutritious soup that your whole family will enjoy. It’s the perfect dish for meal prepping, and the best part is that you can customize it to your taste preferences.
Enjoy your Ham and Bean Soup, and don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your take on this hearty dish!
Pro Tips for a Perfect Ham and Bean Soup
To elevate your Ham and Bean Soup and make it even more delicious, here are some expert tips that will ensure it turns out perfectly every time:
1. Use Leftover Ham for Extra Flavor
If you have leftover ham from a holiday meal or a big dinner, it’s the perfect ingredient for this soup. Not only will it add rich flavor, but using leftover ham helps you make the most of your ingredients without wasting anything. The flavors from the ham will infuse the broth, giving the soup a savory depth. If you don’t have leftover ham, you can buy a ham steak or use a ham bone for a more intense flavor.
2. Soak Dried Beans for a Creamier Texture
If you’re using dried beans instead of canned beans, make sure to soak them overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps the beans cook more evenly, resulting in a creamier texture in the soup. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method: bring the beans to a boil in water, then let them sit covered for about an hour before draining. This step ensures your beans will cook properly in the soup without being too hard or mushy.
3. Don’t Rush the Sautéing Process
Take your time when sautéing the vegetables—onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Letting these ingredients cook for a few extra minutes allows them to soften and caramelize, releasing their natural sugars. This builds a flavorful base for the soup and enhances the overall taste. The depth of flavor developed during this step will make a huge difference.
4. Season Gradually and Taste as You Go
When adding seasonings such as salt, pepper, and herbs, it’s important to season gradually. Since ham can be salty, it’s best to taste the soup as it simmers, adjusting the seasoning as necessary. You can always add more, but it’s hard to remove salt once it’s been added, so be cautious at first.
5. Simmer Low and Slow for Maximum Flavor
For the best results, let the soup simmer on low heat for at least 45 minutes to 1 hour. Slow simmering allows the flavors to meld and intensify, and it makes the beans incredibly tender. The longer it simmers, the better it tastes, so don’t rush the process!
6. Add Greens for Extra Nutrition
If you want to make your Ham and Bean Soup even healthier, consider adding some greens, such as spinach, kale, or swiss chard, during the last 10 minutes of cooking. Not only do these greens add extra nutrients, but they also give the soup a fresh, vibrant color.
By following these tips, your Ham and Bean Soup will be even more flavorful, hearty, and satisfying, perfect for any occasion!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this Ham and Bean Soup because it’s the perfect comfort food that’s both nourishing and easy to make. It’s hearty, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. The combination of tender ham and creamy beans is both satisfying and filling. Plus, it’s great for leftovers and can be frozen for future meals!
What Makes This Recipe Unique?
What makes this Ham and Bean Soup unique is its simplicity and versatility. While many soup recipes are complex and require hard-to-find ingredients, this one uses basic ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry and fridge. Plus, the ease of preparation and rich, comforting flavor make it a go-to recipe for busy days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
A: Yes! Simply combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker will make the soup even more flavorful as the ingredients meld together.
Q: Can I freeze this soup?
A: Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the freezer for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Q: What kind of ham should I use?
A: You can use any type of ham for this recipe, but leftover ham from a holiday meal works great. You can also use a ham steak or even smoked ham.
You’ll Also Love
- Beef and Barley Soup: Another hearty and comforting soup for the colder months.
- Classic Chicken Noodle Soup: A timeless favorite that’s perfect for when you need a little extra comfort.
- Vegetable Soup: A light and healthy soup packed with veggies.
Conclusion
This Ham and Bean Soup recipe is a must-try for anyone looking for a flavorful, satisfying, and easy-to-make meal. It’s the perfect comfort food that’s simple yet incredibly satisfying, and it’s ideal for meal prep or feeding a hungry crowd. With just a few basic ingredients, you can create a delicious soup that everyone will love.
Don’t forget to share your creations with #BeesRecipes on Instagram. We can’t wait to see your delicious take on this hearty dish!