A Hearty and Healthy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Are you looking for a comforting and flavorful soup recipe that's perfect for a chilly evening? Look no further than this delicious ham and bean soup recipe! This recipe is not only incredibly satisfying but also easy to make, using simple ingredients you likely already have in your pantry. This simple recipe is perfect for beginner cooks and seasoned chefs alike. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients You'll Need:
This recipe provides a delightful balance of flavors and textures. You'll need:
- 1 pound ham bone or leftover ham, chopped – The ham provides the rich, savory base for the soup. Using a ham bone will infuse even more flavor!
- 1 cup dried navy beans, or your preferred bean type – Navy beans are classic, but you can experiment with kidney beans, pinto beans, or even great northern beans. Remember to rinse your beans thoroughly before use.
- 8 cups water or low-sodium broth – Broth will add a deeper flavor.
- 1 large onion, chopped – Adds sweetness and depth.
- 2 carrots, chopped – Provides a touch of sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped – Classic soup vegetable for a well-rounded flavor. (This is part of the "mirepoix" - a base for many soups and stews.)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a pungent and aromatic kick.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme – Adds an earthy herbal note.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary – Complements the thyme beautifully.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper – To taste, adjust according to your preference.
- Optional additions: Bay leaf, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a diced potato for extra heartiness.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
This recipe is designed to be straightforward and enjoyable. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Soak the beans (optional but recommended): For quicker cooking and easier digestion, soak the dried beans in cold water overnight. If you skip this step, increase the cooking time accordingly.
- Combine the ingredients: In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked beans (or unsoaked beans), ham, water or broth, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. If using, add the bay leaf and Worcestershire sauce at this stage.
- Bring to a boil: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. If using unsoaked beans, you might need to simmer for longer – even up to 3 hours.
- Shred the ham: Once the beans are cooked, remove the ham bone (if using) and shred the ham meat. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
- Taste and adjust: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed, adding more salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions:
This hearty soup is delicious on its own, but you can also elevate it with a few simple additions:
- A dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt adds a creamy texture and tangy flavor.
- A sprinkle of fresh parsley or chives adds a pop of color and freshness.
- Serve with crusty bread for dipping. Consider a simple cornbread or sourdough.
- For a heartier meal, pair it with a side salad.
Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup:
- Don't be afraid to experiment: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Make it your own: Adjust the seasonings to your taste. A dash of hot sauce can add a nice kick!
- Leftovers are great: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
This recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a classic comfort food that's both delicious and easy to make. Enjoy!
