Ham And Bean Soup
Ham and bean soup is the ultimate comfort food, blending the rich flavors of smoked ham with hearty beans and vegetables. This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. Perfect for a chilly day, this soup warms the soul and fills the belly. With its savory aroma and satisfying texture, it’s a meal that brings families together. Let’s dive into this delightful recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ham, diced
– 1 cup dried white beans (cannellini or navy)
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 carrots, chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe yields about 6 servings. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 cup) contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of protein, 10g of carbohydrates, 8g of fat, and 600mg of sodium. This is based on a single serving for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Rinse and soak the dried beans overnight in water.
- Drain the beans and set aside.
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add the diced ham to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute dried beans with canned beans for quicker preparation. If you prefer a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the ham while adding more vegetables like spinach or kale.
Serving and Pairings
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, a fresh green salad, or cornbread. A sprinkle of cheese on top can add extra flavor and richness.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water or broth if needed.
Cooking Mistakes
- Using old beans may lead to tough texture; always check for freshness.
- Not soaking beans properly can increase cooking time significantly.
- Overcooking can make the beans mushy; check for tenderness periodically.
- Seasoning too early can lead to overly salty soup; adjust at the end.
- Skipping the sautéing step can result in less flavor in the soup.
Helpful Tips
- Make a big batch and freeze in portions for quick meals.
- Add a bay leaf during cooking for added depth of flavor.
- Try using smoked ham hocks for a more robust flavor.
- Experiment with different spices like cumin for a unique twist.
FAQs
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans for convenience. Just rinse them and add them to the soup in the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to heat through.
How do I thicken ham and bean soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash a portion of the beans with a fork or use an immersion blender for a creamier texture.
What type of ham is best for this soup?
Smoked or leftover ham works best, as it adds a rich, savory flavor. You can also use ham hocks for an even deeper taste.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Is ham and bean soup healthy?
Yes, it’s a nutritious option packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables. Just be mindful of sodium if using store-bought broth and ham.
Conclusion
Ham and bean soup is a delightful dish that brings warmth and comfort to the table. With its simple ingredients and rich flavors, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this hearty meal with family and friends, and savor every spoonful!
Ham And Bean Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb ham diced
- 1 cup dried white beans cannellini or navy
- 1 onion chopped
- 2 carrots chopped
- 2 celery stalks chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the dried beans overnight in water.
- Drain the beans and set aside.
- In a large pot, sauté the chopped onions, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add the diced ham to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
- Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, and thyme to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
- Cover and let it simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
