
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
- 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).
- After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside for later.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Add diced onions, chopped carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent.
- Add minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth
- Place the smoked ham hock or ham bone into the pot for a rich, smoky flavor.
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil.
- 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
- Add the drained beans to the pot, along with a bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- 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
- After simmering, remove the ham hock or ham bone from the soup and carefully shred the meat off the bone.
- Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir well.
Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serve
- Taste the soup and add more salt or pepper as needed.
- Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for an added burst of flavor and color.
- 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!