This hearty Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food, especially on a cold day. Packed with tender navy beans, flavorful ham, and aromatic vegetables, this soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. It’s a great way to use leftover ham and can be enjoyed as a satisfying meal on its own.
Preparation Time
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 ribs celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb cooked ham, diced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans:
- Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and sort out any debris.
- Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, then drain and rinse.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add Garlic:
- Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked navy beans, diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Pair with a simple green salad for added freshness.
Cooking Tips
- For a richer flavor, use homemade chicken broth.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, use an immersion blender to puree a portion of the beans and vegetables before adding the ham.
- To save time, you can use canned navy beans (three 15-ounce cans, drained and rinsed) instead of dried beans.
Nutritional Benefits
- Navy Beans: High in fiber and protein, navy beans are also a good source of iron and folate.
- Ham: Adds protein and essential nutrients like B vitamins.
- Vegetables: Provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Contains: Meat (ham), and possible gluten in the broth (check for gluten-free broth if needed).
- Gluten-Free: Ensure all ingredients used are gluten-free.
- Dairy-Free: This recipe is naturally dairy-free.
Storage
- Refrigerate: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comforting: A warm, hearty soup perfect for chilly days.
- Nutritious: Packed with protein, fiber, and essential nutrients.
- Versatile: Easy to make and adaptable to what you have on hand.
- Great for Leftovers: Perfect for using up leftover ham.
Conclusion
This Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting and nutritious dish that’s perfect for family meals or entertaining guests. With its rich flavors and wholesome ingredients, it’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Enjoy making and sharing this delicious soup with your loved ones!
Enjoy your cooking!