Classic Ham and Bean Soup

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Ingredients
3. Instructions
4. Cooking Notes
5. Variations
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
7. Conclusion

Ham and Bean Soup is a timeless comfort food that’s easy to make and full of flavor. Made with tender ham, creamy white beans, carrots, celery, and onions, this soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days. It’s also a great way to use leftover ham or a ham bone, ensuring nothing goes to waste. The slow simmering process allows all the flavors to meld together, resulting in a delicious and satisfying soup.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2 cups diced cooked ham
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 4 cups cooked navy beans or great northern beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables

• Heat the Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Cook Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.

2. Add the Ham and Liquid

• Add Ham: Place the ham bone (or diced ham) into the pot with the vegetables.
• Add Liquid: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Stir in the beans, dried thyme, bay leaf, and black pepper.

3. Simmer

• Cook the Soup: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the ham is tender and the flavors are well combined. If using a ham bone, stir occasionally and skim off any foam that forms on the surface.

4. Remove Ham Bone and Shred Meat

• Remove Bone: If you used a ham bone, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Shred any meat off the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bone and any excess fat.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the salt and pepper as needed.

5. Serve

• Remove the bay leaf and discard. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Serve warm with crusty bread.

Cooking Notes

• Ham Bone: A meaty ham bone adds incredible flavor to the soup. If you don’t have one, diced cooked ham works just as well.
• Beans: You can use dried beans that have been soaked and cooked, or use canned beans for convenience. If using dried beans, you will need about 1 1/2 cups dried beans to equal 4 cups cooked beans.
• Thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot.

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add diced potatoes, bell pepper, or spinach for extra veggies.
• Spicy Ham and Bean Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño for a little heat.
• Smoked Ham Hock: For an even smokier flavor, use a smoked ham hock instead of a ham bone.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make Ham and Bean Soup ahead of time?

Yes, ham and bean soup is great for making ahead of time. The flavors only get better as it sits. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftover soup in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Can I freeze Ham and Bean Soup?

Yes, ham and bean soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.

Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?

Yes, you can use dried beans. You will need about 1 1/2 cups dried navy or great northern beans. Soak them overnight and cook them before adding to the soup.

What can I serve with Ham and Bean Soup?

This soup is delicious with a side of crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad.

Classic Ham and Bean Soup is a cozy, hearty dish that’s perfect for a comforting meal. It’s full of tender ham, creamy beans, and savory vegetables that make it both nourishing and delicious. Whether you’re using leftover ham or a ham bone, this soup is sure to become a favorite for chilly days and family dinners.

Try this recipe for an easy, satisfying meal that brings warmth and flavor to the table!

Let me know if you need more variations or additional tips for this recipe