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 hearty and delicious dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold winter day and is suitable for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, this soup is sure to become a favorite in your household.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation – This recipe requires minimal prep time and uses straightforward techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
• Hearty and Filling – Packed with protein from the ham and beans, this soup keeps you satisfied, making it perfect for lunch or dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients – You can customize the vegetables and spices according to what you have on hand, ensuring nothing goes to waste.
• Great for Meal Prep – This soup freezes well, allowing you to enjoy a homemade meal anytime without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
• Nutrient-Rich – Loaded with fiber and vitamins from the vegetables, this dish is not only delicious but also contributes to a balanced diet.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven pot – Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all ingredients are cooked perfectly together.
• Sharp knife – Makes chopping vegetables effortless, saving you time and effort in preparation.

Ingredients

For this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather the following 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

Main Ingredients

• 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
• Salt (to taste if needed)

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse dried beans thoroughly under cool water.
2. Cover them with several inches of water in a large bowl.
3. Soak the beans overnight, then rinse again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat 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; sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Soup Base

1. Add soaked beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juice), bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and fresh cracked pepper to the pot.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover with the lid slightly ajar.
4. Simmer for about 90 minutes. Check beans’ consistency—if still firm, cook an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Remove lid from the pot; add chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
2. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until cabbage is tender.
3. Taste and adjust salt as necessary (considering the saltiness of the ham).
4. Discard bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving your delicious Ham and Bean Soup is key to enhancing its flavors and making it a memorable meal. Here are some creative serving suggestions to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked sourdough or French bread pairs perfectly with the soup. The crusty texture complements the creamy beans beautifully.
• Garlic bread adds a savory kick that enhances the overall flavor of the meal.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of freshness. It not only enhances the presentation but also adds extra flavor.
• A dash of red pepper flakes can provide a subtle heat, elevating your soup experience.

With a Side Salad

• A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Pairing it with a caesar salad can add a rich flavor that complements the ham nicely.

Served in Bread Bowls

• For a fun twist, serve your Ham and Bean Soup in an edible bread bowl. This adds an interactive element to your meal and makes clean-up easy!

Accompanied by Cheese

• Offer some shredded cheddar cheese or Parmesan cheese on top for added creaminess. Melting cheese into your soup creates a delightful texture.

With Pickled Vegetables

• A side of pickled jalapeños or dill pickles provides a tangy crunch, balancing out the richness of the soup.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

To make your Ham and Bean Soup truly standout, consider these helpful tips.

• Use quality ham: Selecting flavorful ham will enhance the overall taste of your soup significantly.
• Soak beans overnight: This simple step reduces cooking time and ensures beans are tender throughout.
• Adjust seasoning: Taste as you go; adding salt gradually allows you to control the flavor better, especially since ham can be salty.
• Simmer longer if needed: If beans are not soft enough after 90 minutes, continue simmering until they reach desired tenderness.
• Add vegetables last: For more vibrant veggies, add them towards the end of cooking. This keeps their color and crunch intact.
• Store leftovers properly: Keep any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days for easy reheating.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can elevate your dining experience. Here are some great options:

1. Cornbread: Sweet cornbread’s fluffy texture provides a perfect contrast to the hearty soup.
2. Biscuits: Flaky biscuits are ideal for dipping into the rich broth, offering both comfort and satisfaction.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutritional value, rounding out your meal nicely.
4. Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad brings a creamy element that complements the warmth of the soup.
5. Coleslaw: The crunchiness of coleslaw adds refreshing texture, which balances well with the soft beans.
6. Macaroni Salad: Creamy macaroni salad provides another comforting side that pairs excellently with ham flavors.
7. Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites, adding sweetness to counteract savory notes.
8. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: Classic grilled cheese sandwiches offer gooey goodness that pairs wonderfully with every spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be easy, but there are common pitfalls to avoid.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to tough beans. Always soak them for several hours or overnight for the best texture.
• Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to recommended amounts for optimal flavor and texture.
• Neglecting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasoning may leave your soup bland. Always taste before serving and add salt or herbs as needed.
• Not Checking Bean Consistency: Cooking time varies based on bean age. Check for doneness throughout the cooking process to achieve the desired texture.
• Ignoring Leftover Ham Quality: Using poor quality ham can affect flavor. Always opt for fresh leftover ham for a tastier soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Ham and Bean Soup can last up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes or until warm.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe that may help you cook this dish perfectly.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just reduce cooking time significantly since they are already cooked.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

For a vegetarian version of the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

What other vegetables can I add?

Feel free to add vegetables like spinach, kale, or potatoes for extra nutrition and flavor!

How do I thicken my ham and bean soup?

If your soup is too thin, you can mash some beans against the side of the pot or add a cornstarch slurry.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Follow the same steps but cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours after adding all ingredients.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only perfect for using up leftover ham but is also a comforting meal that’s easy to customize. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. Enjoy this delicious dish with family and friends!