This Ham and Bean Soup is a warm hug in a bowl. It’s packed with tender beans, hearty ham, and a mix of tasty veggies, perfect for those cozy nights!
When the chilly weather hits, I love to whip up this soup. It’s so easy! Just throw everything in the pot and let it simmer. Plus, leftovers taste even better the next day!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried White Beans: Navy or great northern beans work great! If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans, but drain and rinse them. Just add them in during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
Ham: Cooked ham adds rich flavor. Leftover ham bones add depth, too! You can swap ham for turkey or even use smoked sausages for a different twist.
Onion and Garlic: These aromatics are key to building flavor. If you’re out of fresh garlic, garlic powder can work in a pinch. Just use less since it packs a stronger punch.
Chicken Broth: For a vegetarian option, vegetable broth is a great substitute. You can also use low-sodium broth to control the saltiness.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
The key to a flavorful Ham and Bean Soup is layering the flavors as it cooks. Start by sautéing the veggies well—this develops a lovely base. Don’t rush this step!
- Cook the onions, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft.
- Add garlic towards the end to keep its fresh flavor intact.
- Use fresh ingredients whenever you can, especially herbs like thyme.
- Don’t forget to taste and adjust seasoning! It’s important to add salt and pepper gradually throughout the cooking process to give the soup depth.
This will help you create a delicious and comforting Ham and Bean Soup! Enjoy!
Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb dried white beans (such as navy or great northern), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 lb ham, diced (cooked ham or leftover ham bone with meat works well)
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 large carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or enough to cover the ingredients)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 15 minutes for preparation and about 1.5 hours to cook, including the simmering time. So, plan for a cozy 1 hour and 45 minutes to enjoy this comforting dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beans:
Start by rinsing the soaked beans thoroughly. Place them in a large pot and cover with enough water to rise about two inches over the beans. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook the beans until they’re tender but not mushy, which typically takes about 40-50 minutes. Once done, drain the beans and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same large soup pot, heat the olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook these veggies until they’re softened, around 5-7 minutes. This step builds a delicious flavor base for your soup!
3. Add Garlic:
Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for about one minute. Keep stirring until you can smell that wonderful aroma. This enhances the flavor even more!
4. Combine Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained beans, diced ham (don’t forget to save some for garnish if you like!), bay leaves, and thyme. Give everything a good stir to mix well.
5. Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to let it simmer. Leave it uncovered for about 45 minutes to an hour. This is when all those lovely flavors combine and the soup thickens slightly, so give it a stir from time to time!
6. Season the Soup:
After simmering, season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Don’t forget to remove the bay leaves before serving!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the warm soup into bowls and top with fresh parsley and any extra chunks of ham you set aside earlier. It’s perfect served hot with some crusty bread on the side!
Enjoy your hearty Ham and Bean Soup! It’s a delight on a chilly day!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, use 2-3 cans of drained and rinsed beans. Add them to the soup during the last 15-20 minutes of simmering to heat through.
What Can I Substitute for Ham?
If you don’t have ham, you can use turkey or smoked sausage for a different flavor. For a vegetarian version, skip the meat entirely and add more vegetables or even some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Absolutely! Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove until warmed through.
How to Adjust Seasoning for Personal Taste?
Always taste your soup towards the end of cooking! You can add more salt, pepper, or herbs like thyme for additional flavor. Just remember to add gradually, as it’s easier to add than to take away!