Ham Bean Soup: 10 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love It

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Ham Bean Soup is a classic dish that warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for cozy family dinners. This easy ham and bean soup combines tender navy beans, smoky ham, and a medley of vegetables for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug. Whether you’re using up leftover ham or planning a hearty meal, this recipe is sure to please everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Ham Bean Soup

This ham bean soup is not just delicious; it’s also practical and nourishing. Here are a few reasons to love this recipe:

It’s a hearty ham bean soup recipe that satisfies hunger.
Perfect for using up leftover ham, reducing food waste.
Great for meal prep; it stores well in the fridge or freezer.
Packed with protein from beans and ham, making it filling and nutritious.
Customizable with your favorite vegetables for added nutrients.
This soup is a classic comfort food, perfect for chilly nights.

With its American Cuisine and low-fat Diet, this recipe is a wholesome choice for your dinner table.

Ingredients for Ham Bean Soup

Gather these items:

1 lb dry navy beans (or other white beans)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for added flavor)
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
3 cups cooked ham, diced
Salt and pepper to taste

How to Make Ham Bean Soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: Soak dry navy beans overnight or use the quick soak method. Alternatively, use canned beans for a quicker version.
Step 2: Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, sauté for 5 minutes. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 more minutes.
Step 3: Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika. Simmer for 15-20 minutes.
Step 4: Add soaked and drained beans (or canned beans) and diced ham. Simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour (or 20-30 minutes if using canned beans), until the beans are tender.
Step 5: Remove bay leaf, taste, and adjust with salt and pepper. Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.

Pro Tips for the Best Ham Bean Soup

Keep these in mind:

For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the beans.
Adding a splash of vinegar just before serving enhances the flavor.
This recipe is stovetop, but you can adapt it for a slow cooker or Instant Pot.
Feel free to toss in any leftover vegetables for extra flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Bean Soup

Here are a few ideas:

Serve with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.
Add a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for garnish.
Pair with a simple salad to balance the meal.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Bean Soup

This soup stores well, making it perfect for meal prep. To store, let it cool completely and transfer to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Bean Soup

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Bean Soup?

The secret lies in using quality ingredients and allowing the flavors to meld together as it simmers. Incorporating herbs like thyme and smoked paprika adds depth to the flavor profile.

Can I make Ham Bean Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup is even better when made ahead of time, as the flavors develop more. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when ready to serve.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Bean Soup?

One common mistake is not soaking the beans long enough. Make sure to soak them overnight or at least use the quick soak method for best results. Also, be cautious with seasoning; taste before adding too much salt.

Variations of Ham Bean Soup You Can Try

Here are some variations to consider:

Add kale or spinach for a nutrient boost.
Use different beans like pinto or black beans for a twist.
Make it a gluten-free ham bean soup recipe by ensuring your broth is gluten-free.
For a spicier kick, add diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes.

Ham Bean Soup: 10 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love It - Ham Bean Soup - main visual representation

For more delicious recipes, check out our Heartwarming Tuscan White Bean Recipe or Creamy Sausage Potato Chowder.

Ham Bean Soup: 10 Comforting Reasons You’ll Love It - Ham Bean Soup - additional detail

For more tips on meal prep, visit Delicious Carnivore Ice Cream Recipes and learn how to make the most of your leftovers.

For more information on the nutritional benefits of beans, you can refer to this Healthline article on beans.