Cozy Ham and Bean Soup Recipe for Chilly Days

The warm, inviting aroma of Ham and Bean Soup wafts through the kitchen, tickling your senses and promising a cozy meal on a chilly day. With its rich blend of smoky ham, hearty beans, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is like a warm hug in a bowl. smokey sausage kale soup You can almost hear it whispering sweet nothings as it simmers away, coaxing your taste buds into blissful submission.

I remember the first time I made this delightful dish; it was a rainy afternoon, and I was channeling my inner chef while wearing my favorite apron. My dog stared at me with those big puppy eyes, convinced that I’d drop something delicious on the floor. Spoiler alert: I did! Ham and Bean Soup is perfect for family gatherings, chilly evenings, or simply when you need comfort food that feels like home. Get ready for an explosion of flavor that’ll make you wonder why you waited so long to try it.

Ingredients for Ham and Bean Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Ham Hock or Diced Ham: For that smoky depth of flavor, go with either a ham hock or diced ham from your deli.

• Dried Beans: Use navy or great northern beans; soak them overnight for best results.

• Carrots: Chop these bright orange beauties into bite-sized pieces to add sweetness.

• Celery: Fresh celery adds crunch and aroma; use stalks that are firm and green.

• Onion: A diced onion brings warmth and richness to the soup; yellow or white varieties work well.

• Garlic: Minced garlic elevates the dish with its bold flavor; fresh cloves are best.

• Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness while adding moisture.

• Bay Leaves: A couple of bay leaves give aromatic depth; just don’t forget to remove them before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below. For more inspiration, check out this Beef Empanadas Recipe recipe.

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

Step 1: Soak the Beans

Start by rinsing your dried beans under cold water. Then soak them overnight in a large bowl filled with water. This step plumps up the beans for that perfect texture.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Toss in the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about five minutes—until they soften like butter on hot toast.

Step 3: Add Ham and Broth

Stir in your choice of ham (hock or diced) along with soaked beans. Pour in enough chicken broth to cover everything by about an inch. Add those bay leaves because we’re about to elevate this soup into gourmet territory.

Step 4: Let It Simmer

Bring your concoction to a boil before reducing the heat to low. Cover the pot and let it simmer for at least an hour—patience is key here! Stir occasionally while dreaming about how amazing dinner will be.

Step 5: Final Touches

After an hour, taste-test your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper according to your preference. Remove bay leaves—nobody wants those crunchy surprises!

Step 6: Serve Up Happiness

Ladle generous portions into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if you’re feeling fancy. Pair it with crusty bread or even cornbread for an ultimate comfort food experience.

Enjoy each spoonful of this magical Ham and Bean Soup that warms not just your stomach but also your soul!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant; this builds the flavor foundation. Next, add your diced ham and let it brown slightly before tossing in beans, broth, and seasonings. Simmer until everything melds together beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out white beans for kidney beans or add some spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. A dash of hot sauce can also spice things up if you like heat!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. Avoid overheating to keep the beans intact.

Sometimes I think back to that time I served this soup at a family gathering, and my cousin declared it “life-changing.” Who knew a humble ham and bean soup could get such rave reviews?

FAQs :

What is Ham and Bean Soup?

Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty dish made from ham, beans, vegetables, and spices. This comforting soup combines the rich flavors of tender ham with protein-packed beans, often seasoned with herbs and spices. creamy wild rice soup recipe It’s a popular choice for cold winter days or when you’re looking for a filling meal. The recipe can vary by region, but common ingredients include navy beans, carrots, onions, and celery.

How long does it take to cook Ham and Bean Soup?

Cooking Ham and Bean Soup generally takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on the stovetop. If using dried beans, soak them overnight to reduce cooking time. This allows the beans to soften and ensures even cooking. If you use canned beans, you may shorten the cooking time significantly. The soup is ready when the beans are tender and infused with ham flavor.

Can I freeze Ham and Bean Soup?

Yes, you can freeze Ham and Bean Soup! It’s a fantastic option for meal prep or batch cooking. To freeze, let the soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. Make sure to leave some space at the top of the container for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

What can I serve with Ham and Bean Soup?

Ham and Bean Soup pairs well with various sides that complement its flavors. Fresh bread or crusty rolls make excellent accompaniments for dipping into the soup. You might also consider serving it with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables for added nutrition. chicken and vegetables skillet A slice of cornbread adds a sweet touch that balances the savory elements of the soup beautifully.

Conclusion for Ham and Bean Soup :

In summary, Ham and Bean Soup offers a warm, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you choose to prepare it from scratch or use canned ingredients, this recipe is versatile and full of flavor. By following simple steps, you can create a nourishing dish that warms both body and soul. black bean burger recipe Don’t forget to explore variations of this classic recipe to suit your taste preferences! Enjoy your delicious bowl of comfort!

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Ham and Bean Soup

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• Author: Grace
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate comfort dish that warms you from the inside out. This hearty, flavorful soup features smoky ham, tender beans, and a medley of fresh vegetables, simmered together to create a cozy meal perfect for chilly days. Easy to prepare and versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish, this recipe brings together family and friends around the dinner table for a satisfying experience.

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Ingredients

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• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 cup dried navy or great northern beans (soaked overnight)
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves

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Instructions

1. Soak the beans overnight in cold water; drain before using.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in the ham and soaked beans. Cover with chicken broth by about an inch and add bay leaves.
4. Bring to a boil; then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for at least 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper; remove bay leaves before serving.
6. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 540mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 5g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 50g
• Fiber: 15g
• Protein: 23g
• Cholesterol: 60mg