Navy Bean Soup with Ham is a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for cooler days. This classic dish combines tender navy beans, smoky ham, and a flavorful broth seasoned with herbs and vegetables. It’s simple to make and is a great way to use up leftover ham. Serve it with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans, soaked overnight or quick-soaked (see below)
- 1 lb ham, diced (or use a ham bone for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or water)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- Salt, to taste (depending on the saltiness of your ham)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika for added depth
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes for heat
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin for a subtle earthy flavor
For Serving:
- Crusty bread or cornbread
- Crackers or salad on the side
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
- Soak the navy beans overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches. Drain and rinse them before using. If you’re short on time, you can do a quick soak: bring the beans to a boil in a pot of water, then remove from heat and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil or butter over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ham and Beans
- Add the diced ham (or ham bone) to the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Stir well to combine.
- Add the drained navy beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and a pinch of salt.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot.
- Let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded. If using a ham bone, remove it, shred the ham off the bone, and return the ham to the pot.
Step 5: Adjust the Seasoning and Serve
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if necessary. If the soup is too thick, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the Navy Bean Soup with Ham hot, garnished with freshly chopped parsley, and pair it with crusty bread or cornbread.
Cooking Notes
- Ham Bone: If you have a leftover ham bone, it adds extra flavor and richness to the soup. Simply remove the bone after simmering, shred the ham from it, and return the ham to the soup.
- Broth: Chicken broth is ideal for a richer flavor, but you can use water or vegetable broth if you prefer a lighter soup.
Variations
1. Smoky Navy Bean Soup
Add 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika to the soup for a smoky flavor that complements the ham.
2. Spicy Navy Bean Soup
Add ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño to the sautéed vegetables for some heat.
3. Creamy Navy Bean Soup
For a creamier texture, puree about 1 cup of the soup and stir it back into the pot, or add a splash of heavy cream before serving.
4. Vegetable-Loaded Navy Bean Soup
Add extra vegetables like potatoes, zucchini, or spinach during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to increase the nutritional value.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned navy beans?
Yes! If you’re short on time, you can use 2-3 cans of navy beans, drained and rinsed. Reduce the cooking time to 20-30 minutes since the beans are already cooked.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave before serving.
Q: Can I freeze navy bean soup?
Yes, this soup freezes well! Let it cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat before serving.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes! Add all the ingredients to the slow cooker, except the olive oil and parsley. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the beans are tender.
Q: What can I use if I don’t have ham?
If you don’t have ham, you can substitute with bacon, smoked sausage, or even turkey ham for a different flavor.
This Navy Bean Soup with Ham is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for using leftover ham or ham bone. With tender beans, smoky ham, and a flavorful broth, it’s a classic dish that’s easy to make and ideal for cold days. Serve it with bread for a hearty meal that everyone will enjoy!
I made this today with our ham bone from thanksgiving… so delish!