Get ready to warm up your soul with a hearty and comforting Ham and Bean Soup. This classic recipe is loved by many, and with a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a savory and satisfying meal in no time.
Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or a cozy weekend, Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect comfort food. The rich flavors of smoky ham, tender beans, and a savory broth create a soup that’s both hearty and heartwarming. And the best part? This soup is surprisingly easy to make, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup
Creating your own Ham and Bean Soup is a straightforward process that involves gathering a few essential ingredients and following simple steps.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried beans (such as navy, pinto, or great northern beans)
- 1 ham bone or 1 pound smoked ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 bay leaf
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Colander
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife
- Wooden spoon
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Soak the beans: Sort and rinse the beans, then soak them in cold water overnight. Draining and rinsing the beans before cooking helps remove any impurities and reduces cooking time.
- Cook the vegetables: In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a little olive oil until softened.
- Add the ham: Add the chopped ham, garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot and cook for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the soaked beans: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham bone (if using): If using a ham bone, remove it from the pot once the soup has simmered for about 1 hour. Pick off any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the soup.
- Thicken the soup (optional): If desired, you can thicken the soup by mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot using a fork or potato masher. This will create a thicker, more substantial soup.
- Serve and enjoy: Ladle the hot Ham and Bean Soup into bowls and serve with your favorite toppings, such as crusty bread, grated Parmesan cheese, or chopped fresh parsley.
Tips or Possible Variations
To enhance the flavor of your Ham and Bean Soup, consider these tips and variations:
- Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as potatoes, green beans, or corn.
- Use canned beans: If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans instead of dried beans. Just be sure to rinse the canned beans well before adding them to the soup.
- Make it vegetarian: To make a vegetarian Ham and Bean Soup, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken or beef broth.
As you experiment with different ingredients and flavors, you’ll discover your unique spin on this comforting Ham and Bean Soup. Whether you serve it with a side of cornbread or a crisp green salad, this hearty and satisfying soup is sure to warm your body and soul.
