Recipe: Ham & Bean Soup - A Hearty and Flavorful Classic
This recipe for Ham & Bean Soup will transport you to grandma's kitchen with its rich, comforting flavors and satisfying texture. It's perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend brunch. This SEO-optimized post will guide you through each step, ensuring a delicious outcome every time. Let's dive in!
Ingredients for the Best Ham & Bean Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is key to a successful ham and bean soup. Here's what you'll need:
- 1 pound ham bone: This provides the rich, savory base for your soup. A smoked ham bone is ideal, but a leftover ham bone works perfectly too!
- 1 pound dried Great Northern beans: These beans hold their shape well and absorb the ham flavor beautifully. You can substitute with other beans like pinto beans or kidney beans, but the cooking time may vary.
- 8 cups water: Enough to cover the beans comfortably.
- 1 large onion, chopped: Adds a sweet and savory depth.
- 2 carrots, chopped: Provides sweetness and vibrant color.
- 2 celery stalks, chopped: Enhances the savory notes. This is part of the classic mirepoix.
- 4 cloves garlic, minced: Adds pungent aromatic flavor.
- 2 bay leaves: Adds subtle herbal complexity.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme: A warm, earthy herb that complements the ham.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Enhances the savory taste.
- Salt to taste: Adjust to your preference.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a tablespoon of Worcestershire sauce or a splash of apple cider vinegar for extra depth of flavor. Chopped fresh parsley or green onions are also delicious garnishes.
Step-by-Step Ham & Bean Soup Recipe
Follow these simple steps for a perfectly cooked and flavorful ham and bean soup:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
- Rinse the beans: Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water. This removes any debris and helps prevent foaming during cooking.
- Soak (Optional): Soaking the beans overnight (or for at least 6 hours) significantly reduces cooking time and improves digestion. If you skip this step, add an extra 30-45 minutes to the cooking time.
Step 2: Combine and Simmer
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed beans, ham bone, water, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaves, thyme, and pepper.
- Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1.5-2 hours, or until the beans are tender. If you soaked the beans, they'll cook faster. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Shred the Ham
- Once the beans are tender, remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone, discarding any remaining bone fragments.
- Return the shredded ham to the soup.
Step 4: Season and Serve
- Season the soup with salt to taste. Add any optional ingredients like Worcestershire sauce or apple cider vinegar at this stage.
- Simmer for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or green onions, if desired.
Tips for the Perfect Ham & Bean Soup
- Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked beans can become mushy. Aim for a tender but still slightly firm texture.
- Adjust seasonings to your taste: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to create your own unique flavor profile.
- Make it ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It also freezes well.
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Enjoy your delicious homemade Ham & Bean Soup!
