Delicious Ham and Bean Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of simmering ham and bean soup wafts through the air like a warm hug on a chilly day. Picture this: tender beans soaked up the savory goodness of ham, with hints of garlic and herbs dancing around your kitchen. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a bowlful of love that warms both your body and soul.

As you ladle this hearty delight into bowls, you’ll find it’s perfect for those cozy nights when all you want is something comforting. Whether it’s a snowy evening or just one of those days where everything feels off-kilter, ham and bean soup is your culinary superhero ready to save the day.

It was one frigid winter evening when I first introduced my now-signature ham and bean soup to my family. Watching their faces light up as they took the first spoonful filled my heart with joy.

Essential Ingredients

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

• Dried Navy Beans: These little guys are the stars of the show—soak them overnight for maximum creaminess.
• Ham Hock: A smoky flavor powerhouse that gives the broth its depth—don’t skip it!
• Carrots: Use fresh, vibrant carrots; they add sweetness and color to your bowl.
• Celery Stalks: Crisp celery brings crunchiness; chop it finely to blend well with other ingredients.
• Onion: A medium onion will provide a flavor base—let it sizzle until translucent.
• Garlic Cloves: Minced garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates the entire dish.
• Bay Leaves: These leaves infuse the broth with earthy flavor; remember to remove them before serving.
• Thyme Sprigs: Use fresh thyme for an herbaceous note; it pairs beautifully with ham.
• Pepper and Salt: Season to taste; remember that the ham hock adds saltiness too!
• Water or Broth: Use low-sodium broth for a richer flavor without overpowering saltiness.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it Together

Prepare Your Ingredients: Start by rinsing your dried navy beans under cold water until they run clear. Soak them overnight in enough water to cover them by two inches.

Sauté Your Vegetables: Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic; sauté until onions turn translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add the Ham Hock and Beans: Stir in your soaked beans along with the ham hock. Pour enough water or low-sodium broth to cover everything by two inches.

Season It Right!: Toss in bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Bring everything to boil while stirring occasionally; then reduce heat to low.

Simmer Away!: Let your pot simmer gently uncovered for about 1.5 hours or until beans are tender but not mushy. Stir occasionally!

Taste Test & Final Adjustments : Check seasoning before serving; adjust salt or pepper based on taste preferences. Remove bay leaves before ladling into bowls.

Serve hot with crusty bread on chilly nights—you’ll be transported straight into comfort food heaven!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic, then add the ham, beans, and broth. This sequence builds flavor depth while ensuring your beans cook perfectly tender.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ham for turkey or even add spinach for extra nutrition. A dash of smoked paprika can elevate the flavor profile significantly!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if needed to revive the soup’s consistency.

Sharing my first attempt at this ham and bean soup still makes me smile; my friends devoured it, leaving no leftovers behind!

FAQ

How can I make ham and bean soup vegetarian?

Use vegetable broth and replace ham with smoked tofu or mushrooms for flavor.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, canned beans save time but rinse them well before adding to the soup.

What’s the best way to season ham and bean soup?

Start with bay leaves and thyme for classic flavors, adjusting salt as needed after cooking.

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📖 Recipe Card

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Ham and Bean Soup

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

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Description

Ham and Bean Soup is a heartwarming dish that combines tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic herbs, creating a cozy meal perfect for chilly nights.

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Ingredients

• Dried Navy Beans
• Ham Hock
• Carrots
• Celery Stalks
• Onion
• Garlic Cloves
• Bay Leaves
• Thyme Sprigs
• Salt and Pepper
• Water or Low-Sodium Broth

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Instructions

1. Rinse dried navy beans under cold water; soak overnight in enough water to cover by two inches.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic until onions are translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Stir in soaked beans and ham hock; add enough water or broth to cover by two inches.
4. Add bay leaves and thyme sprigs; bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
5. Simmer uncovered for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally until beans are tender.
6. Adjust seasoning before serving; remove bay leaves and ladle into bowls.

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

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 30mg