Bean soup with ham is a classic dish that delivers warmth, comfort, and nutrition in every spoonful. Perfect for chilly days or as a satisfying meal any time of year, this dish combines the heartiness of beans with the savory flavor of ham, creating a wholesome bowl of goodness.
In this article, we’ll guide you through making the best bean soup with ham, complete with tips, variations, and storage advice. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, this recipe will become a go-to favorite.
Why Bean Soup with Ham?
There’s something inherently nostalgic about bean soup with ham. It’s a dish often associated with family meals, holiday leftovers, and slow-cooked goodness. Here’s why this dish is a staple in many households:
Nutritious and Filling: Beans are a powerhouse of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients. Paired with ham, the soup becomes a protein-packed meal.
Economical: It makes excellent use of ham leftovers or affordable ham hocks, making it budget-friendly.
Customizable: You can tailor the recipe to include your favorite beans, vegetables, and seasonings.
Easy to Prepare: Most of the work involves simmering, which means minimal active cooking time.
Essential Ingredients
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a look at the key ingredients:
Beans: The base of the soup, traditionally navy beans or great northern beans, though any variety can work.
Ham: A meaty ham bone, ham hock, or diced ham adds richness and depth.
Vegetables: Onion, carrot, and celery are classic additions for flavor and nutrition.
Broth or Stock: Chicken or vegetable stock enhances the flavor.
Seasonings: Bay leaves, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper balance the flavors.
Optional Add-ins: Potatoes, tomatoes, spinach, or kale for added texture and nutrition.
Step-by-Step Recipe for the Best Bean Soup with Ham
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 2–3 hours
Servings: 6–8
Ingredients:
1 pound dried navy beans (or great northern beans)
1 ham bone or ham hock (or 2 cups diced cooked ham)
1 large onion, diced
3 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon dried thyme (or 2 sprigs fresh thyme)
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
1 cup chopped fresh spinach or kale (optional)
Instructions:
Prepare the Beans
If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and sort through to remove any debris. Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water. If short on time, use the quick soak method: boil the beans in water for 2 minutes, then let them soak off the heat for an hour.
Sauté the Vegetables
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add diced onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
Add the Ham and Broth
Place the ham bone or ham hock into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the soaked and drained beans, bay leaves, and thyme. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, ensuring the ingredients are fully submerged.
Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally. The longer the soup cooks, the more the flavors meld together.
Skim off any foam or impurities that rise to the surface.
Adjust Seasoning and Texture
Once the beans are tender and the soup has thickened, remove the ham bone or hock. Shred any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaves and thyme sprigs. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Add Optional Greens
For added nutrition, stir in chopped spinach or kale during the last 5–10 minutes of cooking.
Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
Tips for Success
Choose the Right Beans: While navy beans and great northern beans are traditional, feel free to experiment with black beans, pinto beans, or a mix of varieties.
Use Quality Ham: A bone-in ham provides the best flavor, but leftover diced ham works well too.
Control the Salt: Ham and broth can be salty, so taste before adding extra salt.
Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Enhance with Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or rosemary can elevate the flavor profile.
Variations
Smoky Bean Soup: Add smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a smoky kick.
Vegetable Boost: Incorporate diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or sweet potatoes for added color and nutrition.
Spicy Twist: Stir in red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.
Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
Instant Pot Shortcut: Use the sauté function for the vegetables, then cook on high pressure for 35 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally.
Serving Suggestions
Bean soup with ham is versatile and pairs well with:
Crusty Bread: A classic companion for soaking up the broth.
Cornbread: Sweet or savory, cornbread complements the hearty soup.
Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the soup.
Pickles: Tangy pickles or pickled onions add a delightful contrast.
Storing and Reheating
Storage:
Refrigerator: Store cooled soup in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
Freezer: Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating:
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened during storage.
Nutritional Benefits
This soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients:
Protein: Beans and ham provide a complete protein source.
Fiber: Beans are high in dietary fiber, aiding digestion and promoting fullness.
Vitamins and Minerals: Vegetables contribute essential vitamins like A and C, while ham adds iron and zinc.
A Dish with Stories
Bean soup with ham often carries personal stories and cultural significance. Whether it’s a recipe passed down through generations or a creative twist made with holiday leftovers, this dish connects us to comfort and tradition.
The best bean soup with ham is one that warms your soul and satisfies your hunger. With its hearty ingredients, rich flavors, and endless variations, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Give it a try, customize it to your liking, and enjoy the cozy, delicious result.
