Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul, especially during the colder months. This recipe combines tender chunks of savory ham with creamy beans, earthy vegetables, and aromatic seasonings to create a deliciously satisfying meal. Not only is it a great way to use leftover ham, but its simplicity and depth of flavor make it a favorite for busy weeknights and family gatherings alike.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
You will love this ham and bean soup recipe for several reasons. First and foremost, the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and savory broth that’s absolutely delightful. The recipe is incredibly easy to follow, making it perfect for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. Plus, it aligns well with a wholesome lifestyle, providing a good source of protein and fiber, which makes it a filling yet nutritious meal option. Whether you’re looking for comfort food or a healthy dinner, this soup checks all the boxes.
Tips and Tricks
To make your ham and bean soup even better, consider these tips and tricks:
- Use dried beans for a more authentic flavor and texture; soak them overnight for quicker cooking.
- If time is short, canned beans can be a great shortcut—just rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
- For a deeper flavor, sauté the vegetables in a bit of olive oil before adding the broth.
- Add a bay leaf during cooking for an extra layer of flavor but remember to remove it before serving.
Make Ahead Tips
This soup is perfect for meal prepping! You can chop your vegetables and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Additionally, you can cook the soup and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before freezing, and label the containers with the date for easy tracking.
Recipe Variations
Feel free to get creative with your ham and bean soup! You can swap out the ham for smoked turkey or even a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version. Change up the beans by using white beans, lentils, or even chickpeas. For a different flavor profile, try adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika, or toss in some greens like kale or spinach for added nutrients.
How to Serve
To serve your ham and bean soup, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or chives for a pop of color and freshness. A squeeze of lemon juice can brighten the flavors even more. Pair it with a crusty loaf of bread or a simple side salad for a well-rounded meal.
Pairing Suggestions
For drink pairings, a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir complements the soup beautifully. If you prefer a cocktail, a classic whiskey sour can enhance the savory notes. For non-alcoholic options, a refreshing iced tea or sparkling water with a slice of lemon works wonderfully. Serve with a side of cornbread or a light dessert like apple crisp for a comforting finish.
How to Store
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions, making it easy to reheat. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened.
Equipment Needed
You will need a large stockpot or Dutch oven for this recipe. If you prefer a slow cooker, it can be used as well; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. A cutting board and sharp knife are essential for chopping vegetables, and measuring cups and spoons will help ensure accurate ingredient amounts.
Dietary Adaptations
For a vegan version, substitute the ham with smoked tofu or mushrooms for a similar depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat. To make it gluten-free, ensure your broth and any added seasonings are certified gluten-free. You can also skip salt if you are watching sodium intake and use low-sodium broth instead.
Seasonal Adaptations
In the winter, root vegetables like carrots and turnips work wonderfully in this soup, while in the spring and summer, fresh peas and zucchini can be added for a lighter touch. Using seasonal herbs like fresh thyme or parsley enhances the dish and keeps it fresh.
Kitchen Hacks
To save time, you can use pre-chopped vegetables available at the grocery store. For peeling garlic quickly, smash the cloves with the flat side of a knife. This also helps release more flavor! Additionally, you can use a slow cooker to let the soup simmer while you go about your day, allowing the flavors to develop beautifully without much effort.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use cooked ham instead of raw? Yes, cooked ham is perfect for this recipe as it adds flavor and saves time.
What type of beans should I use? Great northern beans or navy beans work best, but feel free to experiment with what you have on hand.
How long does it take to cook dried beans? If using dried beans, they typically take about 1-2 hours to become tender after soaking.
What if the soup is too thick? Simply add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
How To Make ham and bean soup recipe
Ham and Bean Soup
Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that warms the soul, especially during the colder months.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 cup dried white beans (or 2 cans, drained and rinsed)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- If using dried beans, soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, heat a little olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced ham, soaked beans (or canned beans), broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours if using dried beans, or 30 minutes if using canned beans.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Nutrition Information
Yield
6Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 421Total Fat 20gSaturated Fat 5gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 12gCholesterol 155mgSodium 715mgCarbohydrates 13gFiber 3gSugar 2gProtein 46g
dinnerbytes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although dinnerbytes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Making ham and bean soup is not only a delicious way to use leftover ham but also a fantastic opportunity to create a comforting meal that the whole family will love. With its rich flavors and nourishing ingredients, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every warm spoonful, and don’t hesitate to make it your own with the variations provided!
