Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to transform your ham leftovers into a delightful meal. This easy, healthy dish is perfect for cozy winter days and family gatherings. Packed with flavor and nutrition, it’s a fantastic way to enjoy a comforting bowl of soup any time of year.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This recipe requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with fiber-rich beans and colorful veggies, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.
• Versatile Dish: Customize with your favorite vegetables or spices to suit your taste.
• Great for Leftovers: A fantastic way to utilize leftover ham while creating something new and delicious.
• Hearty and Filling: With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup will keep you satisfied.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe effortlessly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven pot: Perfect for simmering the soup evenly without burning.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Aids in quick and clean cuts for all your ingredients.

Ingredients

Beans

• 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans

Vegetables

• 1 White Onion, (chopped)
• 4 Carrots, (chopped)
• 2 Celery Stalks, (sliced)
• 5 Garlic Cloves, (finely chopped)
• 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage

Liquids

• 64 ounces Chicken Stock
• 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes

Seasonings

• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
• Fresh Cracked Pepper
• Salt – to taste (if needed)

Meat

• 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Beans

1. Rinse dried beans thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cover the beans with several inches of water in a large bowl.
3. Soak the beans overnight. Rinse again before use.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 3 tablespoons of oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes while stirring frequently.
3. Stir in finely chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add soaked beans, chicken stock, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and fresh cracked pepper to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat then reduce heat to low for simmering.
3. Cover the pot but leave the lid slightly ajar. Cook for approximately 90 minutes.

Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage

1. Check the consistency of the beans; if still firm, cook an additional 30 minutes.
2. Remove the lid from the pot and add chopped ham along with shredded cabbage.
3. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste and add salt as needed before serving.

Enjoy this hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe that’s perfect for using up leftovers while warming your soul!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving Ham and Bean Soup is a delightful experience, especially during chilly days. This hearty soup can be paired with various sides to enhance its flavor and create a balanced meal.

With Crusty Bread

• A thick slice of crusty bread is perfect for dipping into the soup. Its texture complements the creamy beans beautifully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle some fresh parsley or thyme on top for a burst of flavor. These herbs add freshness that lifts the dish.

With a Side Salad

• A light side salad can balance the richness of the soup. Consider a simple green salad with vinaigrette dressing.

Accompanied by Pickles

• Tangy pickles can cut through the richness of the ham and beans. They provide a satisfying crunch and flavor contrast.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For an extra fun presentation, serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls. This makes for an impressive and edible serving option.

With Cheese on Top

• Adding shredded cheese, such as cheddar or Monterey Jack, enhances creaminess. Let it melt slightly before serving for maximum enjoyment.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

To make your Ham and Bean Soup even more delicious, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Beans Overnight: Soaking beans overnight helps them cook evenly and become tender, reducing overall cooking time.

• Use Quality Stock: Choosing high-quality chicken stock enhances the flavors in your soup. Homemade stock is ideal, but store-bought works well too.

• Don’t Skip the Bay Leaf: Adding a bay leaf during cooking infuses subtle depth into the soup. Remember to remove it before serving!

• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste your soup as it cooks and adjust seasonings gradually. This ensures you don’t overpower the natural flavors.

• Add Vegetables Wisely: Feel free to include other vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients. Just make sure to add them toward the end of cooking.

• Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors often deepen after a day!

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Ham and Bean Soup pairs wonderfully with several side dishes that complement its hearty nature. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor enhances your meal while adding a crunchy texture.

2. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread provides a lovely contrast to savory soup; it’s easy to make or buy.

3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, making your meal feel complete.

4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness that balances out the richness of the soup.

5. Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges are filling yet light enough not to overshadow the soup’s flavors.

6. Fruit Salad: A refreshing fruit salad offers a sweet finish, cleansing your palate after a rich meal.

7. Cheese Biscuits: Fluffy cheese biscuits are perfect for sopping up leftover broth while adding cheesy goodness.

8. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds elegance and color while being low-calorie and nutritious.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Failing to soak the beans overnight can result in tough beans. Always soak them for at least eight hours to ensure they cook evenly.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Opting for cheap or old ingredients can diminish flavor. Use fresh vegetables and high-quality ham for the best taste.
• Ignoring Cooking Times: Not following the recommended cooking times can lead to either undercooked or overcooked beans. Keep an eye on them for optimal texture.
• Overseasoning Too Early: Adding too much salt at the beginning may lead to overly salty soup. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning towards the end.
• Neglecting Texture Adjustments: If your soup is too thick, you may end up with a paste-like consistency. Add more chicken stock or water gradually to reach your desired thickness.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ham and Bean Soup Recipe in airtight containers.
• It will last for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Use freezer-safe containers or bags; it can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and cover the soup in an oven-safe dish. Heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals (2-3 minutes), stirring between each interval until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, we have answers!

How long does it take to make Ham and Bean Soup?

The total time is approximately 8 hours and 10 minutes, including soaking beans overnight and cooking time.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker preparation. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot.

What type of ham is best for this recipe?

You can use any leftover ham from a holiday feast or even deli ham; just make sure it’s flavorful!

Is this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! This recipe is packed with protein from the ham and fiber from the beans and vegetables, making it a nutritious choice.

Can I customize my Ham and Bean Soup?

Yes! Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe offers a wonderful way to enjoy leftover ham while providing warmth on chilly days. Its versatility allows you to customize with various veggies or spices, making it a delightful meal option. Try it out, and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!