It was a chilly autumn evening when the craving for a warm, hearty bowl of Ham and Bean Soup hit me. As the wind howled outside, I knew nothing would hit the spot better than this classic comfort food. I quickly gathered the simple ingredients – a pound of dried navy beans, some diced ham, carrots, celery, and a few other aromatics. With a little prep work and a bit of patience, the kitchen soon filled with the most inviting aroma. The rich, savory broth and tender beans combined with the smoky ham made for the ultimate satisfying meal. As I ladled the soup into bowls, I couldn’t wait to curl up on the couch and savor every spoonful. There’s just something about homemade Ham and Bean Soup that warms the soul.
Why This Ham And Bean Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To
The Secret Behind Perfect Ham And Bean Soup
What makes this Ham and Bean Soup recipe so special is the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The key is taking the time to properly cook the beans until they’re meltingly tender, allowing them to thicken the broth into a velvety, comforting consistency. And the secret seasoning blend of earthy thyme, aromatic garlic, and savory ham takes this soup to the next level. Once you taste how the simple ingredients come together, you’ll understand why this is a classic that stands the test of time.
Essential Ingredients You’ll Need
The humble ingredients in this recipe are anything but ordinary. Let’s take a closer look at each one:
1 pound dried navy beans – These small, creamy white beans are the perfect canvas for the robust flavors in this soup. As they cook, they’ll release their starches to naturally thicken the broth.
1 pound ham, diced – Smoky, salty ham is the star of the show, providing a savory backbone to the soup. Make sure to use a good quality ham for maximum flavor.
1 onion, diced – Onions add a sweet, allium base note that balances the richness of the ham. Their texture also helps create the hearty, chunky texture.
3 carrots, peeled and diced – Carrots contribute sweetness, color, and texture to the soup. As they break down, they’ll further thicken the broth.
3 celery stalks, diced – Celery lends an aromatic, slightly bitter crunch that complements the other vegetables. It’s an essential supporting player.
4 cloves garlic, minced – Fragrant garlic infuses every bite with its pungent, savory essence, tying all the flavors together.
8 cups chicken or vegetable broth – A flavorful broth is the foundation that allows the other ingredients to shine. Use a high-quality broth for best results.
2 bay leaves – These aromatic leaves add a subtle herbal note and complexity to the soup as it simmers.
1 teaspoon dried thyme – Earthy, woodsy thyme complements the ham and beans, bringing a touch of earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste – Simple seasonings enhance all the flavors without overpowering.
Step-by-Step Ham And Bean Soup Instructions
Preparing Your Ham And Bean Soup
With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 90 minutes, this Ham and Bean Soup is an easy, hands-off recipe that’s perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. To get started, you’ll need a large stockpot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a sharp knife.
1- Start by rinsing the dried navy beans under cool water. Pick through them to remove any stones or debris, then place them in a large pot and cover with 2 inches of water. Let the beans soak for at least 8 hours or overnight to plump them up.
2- Once the beans have soaked, drain and rinse them again. In the same pot, sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
3- Pour in the 8 cups of broth and add the soaked beans, diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 60-90 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very tender.
4- As the soup simmers, the beans will release their starches, thickening the broth to a rich, velvety consistency. The ham will also infuse the entire dish with its savory, smoky essence. Keep an eye on the pot, adding more broth if needed to reach your desired texture.
5- Once the beans are tender, remove the bay leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. The soup is now ready to serve!
6- Ladle the hot Ham and Bean Soup into bowls and enjoy! Top with a sprinkle of fresh thyme or chopped parsley if desired. This recipe makes 6 hearty servings.
Pro Tips for Success
- Soak the beans properly – Taking the time to soak the dried beans overnight or for at least 8 hours ensures they cook evenly and become wonderfully tender.
- Use high-quality ham – Splurge on a flavorful ham, like a smoked or honey-baked variety, for maximum impact. The better the ham, the better the soup.
- Let it simmer slowly – The longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors will meld and the beans will thicken the broth. Be patient and let it cook for the full 60-90 minutes.
- Adjust the consistency – If the soup becomes too thick, simply thin it out with a bit more broth. If it’s too thin, let it simmer uncovered to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
- Season to taste – Be sure to taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. The right seasoning can make all the difference in balancing the flavors.
Serving and Storing Your Ham And Bean Soup
Perfect Pairings for Ham And Bean Soup
This hearty, comforting Ham and Bean Soup is the ultimate crowd-pleaser, serving 6 generous portions. For a complete meal, pair it with a simple green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. Warm, crusty bread or cornbread are classic accompaniments that are perfect for dipping and sopping up every last drop of the flavorful broth.
As for beverages, a crisp lager or amber ale would be a nice contrast to the soup’s heartiness. For a non-alcoholic option, apple cider or a tall glass of ice water would also make excellent pairings. The soup’s savory, soothing flavors lend themselves well to cozy, casual meals, whether it’s a family dinner or a potluck with friends.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about this Ham and Bean Soup is that it gets even better with time. The flavors continue to meld and deepen as it sits, making it an ideal make-ahead meal.
To store, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout. The soup also freezes exceptionally well – just be sure to leave a bit of headspace in the container to allow for expansion.
Frozen Ham and Bean Soup will keep for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. The soup may thicken up a bit more as it freezes and defrosts, so you may need to thin it out with a splash of broth or water when reheating.
With its long-lasting storage life and make-ahead convenience, this recipe is perfect for meal prepping or stocking your freezer with hearty, comforting meals.
Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ham And Bean Soup
Creative Ham And Bean Soup Variations
While this classic Ham and Bean Soup recipe is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:
- Swap in different bean varieties like kidney, pinto, or black beans for a change in texture and flavor.
- For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a finely diced jalapeño along with the other vegetables.
- Stir in some diced potatoes or diced sweet potatoes for extra heartiness and nutrition.
- Finish the soup with a squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, thyme, or oregano for a bright, herbal note.
Making Ham And Bean Soup Diet-Friendly
For those following a gluten-free diet, simply use gluten-free broth in place of the standard variety. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
To make this recipe vegan or vegetarian, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You can replace the ham with diced mushrooms, cooked lentils, or crumbled tofu for a protein boost.
For a low-carb version, reduce the amount of beans by half and add extra diced ham, celery, and carrots. Garnish with shredded cheese or a dollop of sour cream.
No matter which dietary variations you choose, this comforting Ham and Bean Soup will warm you from the inside out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
A: While you can use canned beans, the texture and flavor won’t be as rich and satisfying as using dried navy beans that have been properly soaked. The soaked dried beans release their starches to thicken the broth as they cook.
Q: How long does the soup need to simmer?
A: For the best results, let the soup simmer for 60-90 minutes. This allows the beans to become very tender and the flavors to fully develop. If the soup seems too thick, you can thin it out with a bit more broth.
Q: Can I freeze leftover Ham and Bean Soup?
A: Absolutely! This soup freezes beautifully. Simply let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Q: How much does this recipe make?
A: This Ham and Bean Soup recipe serves 6 generous portions. It’s a hearty, filling soup, so the 6 servings should be substantial enough to make a complete meal.
Q: What if the beans aren’t tender after simmering?
A: If the beans still seem a bit firm after 60-90 minutes of simmering, you may need to let them cook a bit longer. Make sure the beans were properly soaked beforehand. You can also try simmering the soup at a lower temperature for an extra 30 minutes or so.
Ham And Bean Soup
- Total Time: 105
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
This classic Ham And Bean Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days. Packed with tender beans, chunks of savory ham, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, this soup is sure to warm you from the inside out.
Ingredients
1 pound dried navy beans
1 pound ham, diced
1 onion, diced
3 carrots, peeled and diced
3 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Soak the dried beans in water overnight. Drain and rinse them before using.
2. In a large pot, sauté the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of oil until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Pour in the broth and add the soaked beans, diced ham, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat and simmer for 60-90 minutes, or until the beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Remove the bay leaves before serving. Enjoy the comforting Ham And Bean Soup with crusty bread.
Notes
For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot. You can also add diced potatoes or kale for extra heartiness. This soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 90
- Category: Main Dishes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Conclusion
This classic Ham and Bean Soup is a true comfort food treasure. With its rich, velvety broth, tender beans, and savory ham, it’s a dish that warms the soul and brings people together. The best part is, it’s incredibly easy to make – just a bit of prep work and then let the pot simmer away on the stove.
Once you try this recipe, I have a feeling it will become a new family favorite. The layers of flavor are simply unbeatable, and it’s the perfect antidote to a chilly day. So gather your ingredients, get cooking, and get ready to enjoy a cozy, comforting bowl of Ham and Bean Soup. I can’t wait to hear how much you love it!
