Description:
This Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that warms both the body and the soul. Made with tender navy beans, a rich ham bone, and a medley of flavorful vegetables, this soup is a true crowd-pleaser. Every spoonful is bursting with savory goodness, making it an ideal choice for chilly evenings or a nourishing family meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This recipe is cherished not only for its delightful flavors but also for its versatility and ease of preparation. The combination of smoky ham and creamy beans creates an irresistible blend of textures. Additionally, it’s an economical recipe that makes use of leftover ham, ensuring that nothing goes to waste. Perfect for meal prep, this dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld together. And with the convenience of a slow cooker, you can set it and forget it, allowing the ingredients to mingle into a comforting bowl of nourishing soup.
Introduction
As the leaves begin to turn and the air grows crisp, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of a hearty soup wafting through the kitchen. Ham and Bean Soup is a beloved classic that has stood the test of time, transcending generations with its simple yet satisfying ingredients. This dish can evoke memories of family gatherings or cozy nights in. Beyond nostalgia, it’s a wholesome option that warms you from the inside out.
The heart of this recipe lies in its core ingredients — navy beans and a ham bone. These two components come together to create layered flavors that are both satisfying and nourishing. Whether you have leftover ham from a holiday feast or are just looking for ways to incorporate more legumes into your diet, this soup is an excellent choice. It offers a delicious solution to using leftover ingredients, turning them into a soul-warming meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Dried Navy Beans (2 ½ cups sorted and rinsed)
- 1.5 pounds Ham Bone with meat
- 1/2 large Onion, diced (1 cup)
- 1 large Celery Rib, diced (1 cup)
- 5 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme or 3 fresh sprigs
- 1 teaspoon Sea Salt or to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 6 cups Water
- 1 large Carrot, diced (1 cup)
Preparation:
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Begin by sorting through the dried navy beans to remove any small stones or debris. Rinse them under cold water to ensure they’re clean. Although not necessary, soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time, but you can also skip this step for a more convenient preparation.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
In your slow cooker, combine the rinsed navy beans, ham bone (with any attached meat), diced onion, diced celery, minced garlic, dried thyme, sea salt, and black pepper. The combination of these fresh vegetables will enrich the soup with flavors and aromas.
Step 3: Add Water
Pour enough water into the slow cooker to cover the bean mixture by approximately one inch. This extra liquid will allow the beans to expand and soften during the cooking process.
Step 4: Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for about 5 hours. If you prefer a thicker soup, consider cooking it for a little longer until the beans break down slightly. It’s essential not to rush this process — the longer cooking time draws out the rich flavors of the ham and vegetables.
Step 5: Add Carrots and Finish
Approximately 30 minutes before serving, add the diced carrot to the slow cooker. Stir everything together, cover, and continue cooking until both the beans and carrots reach your desired tenderness. Once everything is cooked, remove the ham bone from the pot. Shred the ham meat off the bone, discarding any cartilage or gristle, and return the meat to the soup.
COOKING Note:
If you have unsoaked beans, the cooking time may be longer, so be prepared to adjust as necessary. For a stove-top version, simply simmer all the ingredients in a large pot for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your Ham and Bean Soup with a side of crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a complete meal. A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors without overpowering the comforting essence of the soup.
Tips:
- Storage: This soup can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring it to airtight containers for freezing.
- Leftover Ideas: Use any leftover soup as a filling for a savory pot pie or a topping for baked potatoes.
- Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the spices according to your taste. Adding a bay leaf during cooking or a dash of smoked paprika can introduce a new dimension to the flavor.
- Vegetarian Variation: For a vegetarian twist, omit the ham bone and add smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor without the meat.
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cooking Time: 5 hours
Total Time: 5 hours 20 minutes
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 23g
- Sodium: 530mg
Conclusion:
Ham and Bean Soup embodies the essence of home cooking — hearty, nourishing, and full of love. It’s a dish that not only satisfies hunger but also warms hearts and homes. Perfect for gatherings, family dinners, or even busy weekdays, this recipe highlights the beauty of slow-cooked meals. Take the time to let the flavors meld beautifully, and enjoy a bowl of comfort as the chill of autumn settles in. With each spoonful, you’ll be reminded of the simple joys of good food and shared moments. So gather your loved ones, serve this delightful soup, and relish the warmth it brings to your table.
FAQs about Ham and Bean Soup:
- Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans for a quicker option. Rinse and drain them and reduce the cooking time to 1-2 hours on low. - Can I freeze Ham and Bean Soup?
Absolutely! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. - What type of ham works best for this recipe?
A hearty ham bone, preferably with some meat left on it, will add the best flavor. You can use leftover holiday ham or purchase a bone from the butcher. - How do I make this soup vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and add extra vegetables such as mushrooms or smoked paprika to enhance flavor. - How can I thicken my soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, simply mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon or blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
