Classic Ham and Bean Soup

There’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of Ham and Bean Soup on a chilly day. The slow-simmered combination of tender beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a comforting dish that fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma. Every spoonful delivers rich, savory flavors with just the right balance of seasoning and texture.

This recipe is not only delicious but also a great way to use leftover ham, making it an economical and satisfying choice for any home cook. Whether served as a wholesome lunch or a satisfying dinner, this soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh green salad. Simple to prepare and packed with protein, it’s a meal the whole family will love!

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans

• 1 meaty ham bone (or 2 cups diced ham)

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 carrots, diced

• 2 celery stalks, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 6 cups chicken broth

• 2 cups water

• 1 bay leaf

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• 1 tbsp olive oil

Directions:

1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover them by at least two inches. Drain before using.

2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened.

3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.

4. Add the drained beans, ham bone (or diced ham), chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and salt.

5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

6. Remove the ham bone and shred any remaining meat back into the soup. Discard the bone.

7. If desired, mash some of the beans for a thicker consistency or leave them whole for a chunkier texture.

8. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve warm with crusty bread.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 2 hours | Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 6 servings

The Ultimate Comfort Food: Classic Ham and Bean Soup

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals, few dishes compare to a steaming bowl of homemade ham and bean soup. This timeless classic has been a staple in kitchens for generations, providing warmth, nourishment, and deep, savory flavors. Whether you’re looking for a way to use up leftover ham from a holiday meal or seeking a budget-friendly recipe that’s both nutritious and satisfying, ham and bean soup is an excellent choice.

The History and Tradition of Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and bean soup has its roots in various culinary traditions across the globe, particularly in European and American cuisines. Historically, dried beans were a pantry staple due to their long shelf life and affordability, making them a reliable source of protein. Pairing beans with ham, especially a leftover ham bone, became a popular way to extract maximum flavor from available ingredients, ensuring nothing went to waste.

In the United States, this dish is often associated with the South and Midwest, where hearty soups and stews play an essential role in comfort cooking. Navy bean soup, a close cousin of ham and bean soup, has even been a part of the U.S. Senate’s menu for over a century. The appeal of this dish lies in its simplicity, versatility, and deeply satisfying taste.

Why Ham and Bean Soup is a Nutritional Powerhouse

This soup is not only flavorful but also packed with nutrition. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. They help support digestion, keep you full longer, and regulate blood sugar levels.

Ham adds another layer of protein, along with essential nutrients like iron, zinc, and B vitamins. Though ham can be high in sodium, you can balance the saltiness by using low sodium broth and adjusting the seasoning to your taste. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions enhances the soup’s nutritional profile, providing essential vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin A.

For those watching their calorie intake, this soup is a great option. It’s filling and hearty while remaining relatively low in calories compared to creamy or cheese laden soups. Additionally, by adjusting the ingredients, such as using lean ham or reducing added salt, you can make it even healthier.

The Secret to Making the Best Ham and Bean Soup

The key to an exceptional ham and bean soup lies in slow cooking and layering flavors. Here are a few tips to ensure the best results:

1. Soak the Beans – If you’re using dried beans, soaking them overnight can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. It also helps remove some of the natural compounds that cause bloating.
2. Use a Meaty Ham Bone – The secret to deep, smoky flavor is using a ham bone with some meat still attached. As it simmers, the bone releases collagen and flavor, creating a rich and satisfying broth.
3. Low and Slow Cooking – Whether you’re using a stovetop, slow cooker, or Instant Pot, allowing the soup to cook slowly enhances the depth of flavor and ensures the beans become tender without breaking apart.
4. Mashing or Blending for Texture – For a thicker, creamier soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup before serving.
5. Balancing Flavors – Since ham can be quite salty, always taste your soup before adding additional salt. A touch of acidity, such as a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon, can help brighten the flavors.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

Ham and bean soup is a stand alone meal, but pairing it with the right side dish elevates the experience. Here are some delicious accompaniments:

• Crusty Bread or Cornbread – A warm slice of crusty bread or buttery cornbread is perfect for soaking up the rich broth.
• Side Salad – A light, crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Pickles or Pickled Vegetables – The acidity of pickled vegetables cuts through the richness of the soup, enhancing the overall taste.
• Rice or Quinoa – For an extra-filling meal, serve the soup over cooked rice or quinoa.

Variations of Ham and Bean Soup

One of the best things about this soup is its versatility. Here are some variations to try:

• Smoky Ham and Black Bean Soup – Swap out navy beans for black beans and add smoked paprika for a southwestern twist.
• Spicy Cajun Ham and Bean Soup – Include Cajun seasoning, diced tomatoes, and andouille sausage for a bold and spicy flavor profile.
• Tuscan White Bean and Ham Soup – Add Italian herbs like rosemary and thyme, and finish with a drizzle of olive oil and parmesan cheese.
• Vegetable-Loaded Ham and Bean Soup – Enhance the nutrition by adding extra veggies like kale, zucchini, or bell peppers.
• Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup – For an easy, hands-off version, throw everything in the slow cooker and let it simmer for several hours.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Ham and bean soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Warm the soup on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the consistency. If reheating from frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before warming.

Conclusion

Ham and bean soup is the perfect blend of tradition, nutrition, and incredible flavor. Whether you’re making it as a way to repurpose leftovers or simply craving a comforting meal, this recipe is one you’ll want to return to time and time again. It’s affordable, easy to make, and endlessly customizable to suit your taste.

So the next time you find yourself with a leftover ham bone, don’t let it go to waste transform it into a soul warming bowl of ham and bean soup that the whole family will love.