Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup to warm you up on a cold day. This hearty, protein-packed dish is made with tender navy beans, smoky ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, creating a deep and rich flavor with every spoonful. The slow-cooked broth melds all the ingredients together, making it the ultimate comfort meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy winter dinner, an easy way to use up leftover ham, or a nostalgic meal that brings back childhood memories, this soup is the perfect choice. Serve it with a slice of crusty bread or cornbread for a filling and satisfying meal that will keep you coming back for more.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans

• 1 meaty ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups water

• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ teaspoon black pepper

• ½ teaspoon dried thyme

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for added depth)

Directions:

1. Rinse and sort the dried beans, then soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain before using.

2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5 minutes).

3. Stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

4. Add the ham bone (or diced ham), soaked beans, water, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaf.

5. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Remove the ham bone and shred any remaining meat into the soup. Discard the bay leaf.

7. Adjust seasoning to taste and stir in apple cider vinegar if desired.

8. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup: A Hearty and Timeless Classic

Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup is a dish that brings warmth and nostalgia to the dinner table. This hearty soup has been a staple in households for generations, providing nourishment, flavor, and comfort in a single bowl. With its rich broth, smoky ham, and tender beans, this soup is perfect for cold days, family gatherings, or simply when you’re craving a wholesome meal.

This dish is not just about taste it’s also about tradition. Many families have their own variations of this recipe, passed down through generations. Whether cooked on the stovetop, in a slow cooker, or an Instant Pot, Ham and Bean Soup is a simple yet deeply satisfying meal that makes the most of budget-friendly ingredients.

The History of Ham and Bean Soup

The origins of Ham and Bean Soup can be traced back to early American settlers who relied on preserved meats and dried beans for sustenance. These ingredients were easy to store and provided essential nutrients, making them a practical choice for long winters and difficult times. The practice of slow-cooking beans with ham hocks dates back even further, with roots in European and Native American cooking traditions.

In the United States, this soup became especially popular in the early 20th century when frugality was essential. Using ham bones or leftover ham to create a flavorful broth allowed families to stretch their food supplies and create a nutritious meal with minimal waste. Today, the soup remains a comforting and economical option for home cooks everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are several reasons why Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup has remained a beloved dish over the years:

1. Rich, Smoky Flavor – The combination of ham hocks or leftover ham with slow-simmered beans creates a deep and satisfying taste.
2. Budget-Friendly – Beans are one of the most affordable sources of protein and fiber, making this dish cost-effective for families.
3. Great for Meal Prep – This soup stores well in the refrigerator and even tastes better the next day as the flavors meld.
4. Customizable – You can easily adjust the seasoning, add vegetables, or swap in different types of beans to suit your preferences.
5. Nutritious and Filling – Packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins, this soup provides a balanced meal in every serving.

Variations of Ham and Bean Soup

1. Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup

For an easy, hands-off approach, cook this soup in a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the pot, set it on low for 6-8 hours, and let the flavors develop gradually. The beans become extra tender, and the ham infuses the broth with a deep, rich taste.

2. Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Short on time? The Instant Pot can significantly cut down cooking time. Using the pressure cooking function, you can achieve the same depth of flavor in about an hour. This method is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a quick but satisfying meal.

3. Vegetable-Packed Ham and Bean Soup

To boost the nutritional content, consider adding more vegetables such as diced tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, or even sweet potatoes. These additions provide extra vitamins, minerals, and a pop of color to your soup.

4. Spicy Ham and Bean Soup

For those who love a little heat, add a chopped jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to give the soup an extra kick.

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Bean Soup

1. Soak the Beans for a Smoother Texture

Soaking dried beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and improves their texture. If you’re short on time, use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for a few minutes, then letting them sit in hot water for an hour before cooking.

2. Use a Ham Bone for Maximum Flavor

A ham hock or leftover ham bone adds depth to the broth. If you don’t have one, diced ham still works well, but using a bone enhances the overall taste of the soup.

3. Season Towards the End

Since ham is naturally salty, it’s best to wait until the end of the cooking process before adding extra salt. This prevents the soup from becoming overly salty.

4. Let It Rest for Enhanced Flavor

Ham and Bean Soup tastes even better the next day after the flavors have melded together. If possible, prepare the soup in advance and reheat it before serving.

5. Garnish for Freshness

A sprinkle of chopped parsley or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving adds brightness and balances the richness of the soup.

Serving Suggestions

Ham and Bean Soup pairs well with a variety of sides to make it a complete meal. Here are some great accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread – A warm loaf of sourdough or cornbread is perfect for soaking up the broth.
• Side Salad – A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette balances the heartiness of the soup.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich – A classic comfort food pairing for a satisfying meal.
• Pickles or Pickled Vegetables – The tanginess helps cut through the richness of the soup.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to develop, making the soup even more delicious over time.

Freezing:

Ham and Bean Soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Reheating:

Reheat the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. If the soup has thickened too much, add a bit of water or broth to loosen the consistency.

Conclusion:

Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup is a time-honored recipe that brings comfort, nutrition, and affordability to the table. Whether you prepare it in a slow cooker, Instant Pot, or on the stovetop, this soup is a reliable go-to meal that will leave you feeling satisfied. With its rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and endless customization options, it’s easy to see why this dish remains a favorite in many households.