What To Know
- For an even richer flavor, add a ham hock to the soup along with the ham bone or diced ham.
- Add a touch of sweetness to the meal with a fruit salad or a slice of apple pie.
- Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Warm up your soul with a comforting bowl of ham and bean soup. This classic dish is incredibly easy to make and packed with savory flavors. If you’re wondering “how to ham and bean soup,” follow our step-by-step guide to create a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 ham bone or 1 pound ham, diced
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked beans. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beans with the ham bone or diced ham, onion, carrots, celery, broth, thyme, and bay leaf.
2. Bring to a Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce Heat and Simmer: Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Season to Taste: Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Remove Ham Bone or Dice: If using a ham bone, remove it from the soup. If using diced ham, continue cooking in the soup.
6. Serve Warm: Ladle the soup into bowls and serve warm with crusty bread or crackers.
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Bean Soup
- Use a Variety of Beans: For a more complex flavor, try using a combination of navy beans, pinto beans, or kidney beans.
- Add Vegetables: Don’t limit yourself to carrots and celery. Experiment with other vegetables like corn, green beans, or potatoes.
- Season with Herbs and Spices: Enhance the flavor with herbs like rosemary, oregano, or basil. Add a touch of heat with cayenne pepper or chili powder.
- Don’t Overcook the Beans: Beans should be tender but still hold their shape. Overcooking can make them mushy.
- Add a Ham Hocks: For an even richer flavor, add a ham hock to the soup along with the ham bone or diced ham.
Variations on Ham and Bean Soup
- Creamy Ham and Bean Soup: Puree a portion of the soup for a creamy texture.
- Spicy Ham and Bean Soup: Add a few diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to give the soup a kick.
- Loaded Ham and Bean Soup: Add your favorite toppings to the soup, such as shredded cheese, sour cream, or chopped tomatoes.
- Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup: Combine all the ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
Perfect Pairings for Ham and Bean Soup
- Crusty Bread: Dip a slice of crusty bread into the soup for a satisfying soak.
- Cornbread: Serve the soup with a side of warm, fluffy cornbread.
- Salad: Balance the richness of the soup with a fresh green salad.
- Fruit: Add a touch of sweetness to the meal with a fruit salad or a slice of apple pie.
The Comforting Conclusion
There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of ham and bean soup on a chilly day. With its savory flavors and comforting warmth, this classic dish is sure to bring joy to your table. Experiment with different variations and pairings to find your perfect match.
Basics You Wanted To Know
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the soup.
2. How long can I store ham and bean soup?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or in the freezer for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use other types of meat in the soup?
Yes, you can use smoked sausage, bacon, or ground beef instead of ham.
