Savory Bean and Ham Soup: A Hearty Recipe for Comforting Meals

Savory Bean and Ham Soup: A Hearty Recipe for Comforting Meals

Looking for a nutritious and filling soup to warm you up? This Bean and Ham Soup is the perfect solution! With a rich combination of beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, it’s the ideal comfort food that’s both hearty and healthy. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly day or serving it for dinner, this soup will be a hit! Follow this simple recipe to create your own bowl of warmth and deliciousness.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cups mixed beans (white beans, kidney beans, etc.)
  • 1 lb smoked ham hock or ham bone
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prep the Beans

  1. Rinse dried beans thoroughly and soak them in water overnight, or you can opt for canned beans if you’re short on time (drain and rinse them before use).
  2. After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside for later.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

  1. Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
  3. Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth

  1. Place the smoked ham hock or ham bone into the pot for a rich, smoky flavor.
  2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil.
  3. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

Step 4: Incorporate the Beans and Seasonings

  1. Add the drained beans to the pot, along with a bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  2. Let the soup simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and fully cooked, stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Shred the Ham

  1. After simmering, remove the ham hock or ham bone from the soup and carefully shred the meat off the bone.
  2. Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir well.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serve

  1. Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper as needed.
  2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.
  3. Serve your hearty bean and ham soup hot, and enjoy it with some crusty bread on the side.

Tips for Perfecting Your Bean Soup:

  • For a more robust flavor, consider adding smoked sausage to the soup along with the ham.
  • If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans with a potato masher to achieve a creamier texture.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for later use.

Conclusion:

This Savory Bean and Ham Soup is a perfect meal for any day. It’s loaded with hearty flavors, a perfect balance of protein and fiber, and is sure to keep you full and satisfied. This is comfort food at its finest, ideal for a cold day or when you need a filling dinner. Give it a try and indulge in the comforting warmth and deliciousness of homemade bean soup!

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