Canning ham and bean soup is an excellent way to preserve a hearty and flavorful dish for future enjoyment. This delicious soup is perfect for cold winter days and is a great way to use up leftover ham. It’s a budget-friendly meal that is easy to make and can be tailored according to your preferences.
To can ham and bean soup, you will need a pressure canner, jars, and lids that are specifically designed for canning. The process of canning involves heating the soup to a high temperature to kill bacteria and create a seal that will keep the soup fresh for storage. By following the proper canning techniques, you can safely preserve the soup for extended periods.
Canning ham and bean soup is a satisfying and versatile dish that can be enjoyed by family and friends. Experiment with different variations, such as adding vegetables, spices, or beans, to create a soup that meets your taste. The convenience of having canned soup on hand makes it a fantastic option for busy individuals or families. So, gather your ingredients and let’s dive into the art of canning ham and bean soup.
How to Make Canning Ham and Bean Soup
Canning ham and bean soup is a straightforward process that requires careful preparation and attention to detail. Before you begin, gather all the necessary ingredients and equipment to ensure a smooth canning experience.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups dried pinto beans, soaked overnight and rinsed
- 1 pound canned diced tomatoes (undrained)
- 1 cup frozen corn
- 1/2 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) diced ham
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 2 teaspoons chili powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 6 cups chicken broth
Equipment:
- Large Dutch oven or stockpot
- Pressure canner
- Canning jars and lids
- Jar lifter
- Funnel
Step 1: Sauté the vegetables
Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or stockpot over medium heat. Add the onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Combine the ingredients
Add the beans, tomatoes, corn, green bell pepper, red bell pepper, ham, brown sugar, chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well to combine.
Step 3: Add the broth
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Step 4: Prepare the jars
While the soup is simmering, prepare the canning jars and lids according to the manufacturer’s instructions. This typically involves washing the jars and lids in hot soapy water and sterilizing them in the preheated pressure canner.
Step 5: Fill the jars
Once the soup is ready, fill the hot jars with the soup, leaving about 1 inch of headspace at the top. Use a funnel to prevent spills.
Step 6: Seal the jars
Wipe the rims of the jars with a clean, damp cloth to remove any food particles. Place the lids on the jars and screw on the rings until they are finger-tight.
Step 7: Process the jars
Place the filled jars in the prepared pressure canner and follow the manufacturer’s instructions for processing the jars.
Step 8: Cool and store the jars
Once the processing time is complete, turn off the heat and let the pressure canner cool down naturally. Once the pressure has dropped to zero, carefully remove the jars from the pressure canner and let them cool completely on a wire rack.
Tips or Possible Variations of Canning Ham and Bean Soup
To enhance the flavor of your ham and bean soup, consider adding a ham bone to the pot while simmering. This will add a rich, smoky flavor to the soup.
If you don’t have dried beans on hand, you can substitute 3 cans (15 ounces each) of canned beans, drained and rinsed.
Feel free to customize the soup to your taste by adding other vegetables, such as carrots, celery, or potatoes. You can also adjust the seasonings to suit your preferences.
Canned ham and bean soup is a delicious and versatile dish that is perfect for cold winter days or as a quick and easy meal on busy weeknights. With careful preparation and attention to detail, you can enjoy the convenience and flavor of homemade canned soup for months to come.
So, gather your ingredients, prepare your equipment, and let the canning begin! Experiment with different variations and enjoy the satisfaction of preserving a hearty and flavorful soup that can be enjoyed by family and friends for years to come.
