Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to utilize your ham leftovers in an entirely new dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold winter day, offering warmth and comfort with each spoonful. It’s not only delicious but also versatile enough for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare – With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, making this soup is a breeze.
- Flavorful and Hearty – The combination of ham, beans, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that satisfies.
- Great for Leftovers – This recipe is perfect for using up leftover holiday ham, reducing waste while enjoying a new dish.
- Nutritionally Balanced – Packed with protein from the ham and fiber from the beans, it’s a healthy choice for any meal.
- Freezable – Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals on busy days.
Tools and Preparation
Before you dive into making this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather your tools. Having everything ready will streamline your cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large Dutch oven pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups/spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large Dutch oven pot – This is ideal for even cooking and simmering the soup without burning.
- Sharp knife – A sharp knife makes chopping vegetables fast and safe.
- Measuring cups/spoons – Accurate measurements ensure consistent flavor every time.
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
Protein
- 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
Other
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- Salt – to taste (if needed)
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse dried beans thoroughly under cold water. Cover them with several inches of water in a bowl. Soak the beans overnight. After soaking, rinse them once more before using.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven pot, heat oil over high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté these vegetables for about 4-5 minutes until they begin to soften. Stir frequently to prevent sticking. Add finely chopped garlic to the pot and sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add soaked beans into the pot along with chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juice), bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low to simmer. Cover the pot slightly ajar and let it cook for about 90 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches
After 90 minutes, check the consistency of the beans; they should be tender but not mushy. If still firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes as needed. Once ready, remove the lid and stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage. Cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes. Taste before serving; adjust salt if necessary based on how salty your ham is. Don’t forget to discard the bay leaf before serving!
This hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe makes eight servings—perfect for meal prepping or sharing with loved ones! Enjoy your delicious creation!
How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Serving your Ham and Bean Soup can elevate the dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this hearty dish that will impress your family and friends.
Pair with Crusty Bread
- A warm, crusty loaf of bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious broth. Consider serving baguette slices or rustic sourdough.
Add a Side Salad
- A fresh salad adds a crisp contrast to the soup’s warmth. A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette works well.
Top with Fresh Herbs
- Garnish your soup with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and a pop of color. This brightens up each bowl.
Serve with a Cheese Platter
- Create a small cheese platter to accompany the soup. Include cheeses like cheddar or gouda, which complement the savory flavors.
Create a Sandwich Combo
- Pairing the soup with grilled cheese or ham sandwiches makes for a filling meal. The gooey cheese complements the soup beautifully.
Offer Hot Sauce on the Side
- For those who enjoy a kick, provide hot sauce as an option. It allows guests to customize their heat level in each bowl.
How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
To make sure your Ham and Bean Soup comes out perfectly every time, consider these tips.
- Soak beans overnight: This step ensures that your beans cook evenly and become tender in less time.
- Use quality stock: Opt for low-sodium chicken stock for better control over salt levels while enhancing flavor.
- Adjust seasoning towards the end: Taste before adding more salt; depending on your ham’s saltiness, you may not need much.
- Simmer gently: Slow cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully, creating a rich and comforting taste.
- Add veggies at different times: To maintain their texture, add heartier vegetables like cabbage later in the cooking process.
- Refrigerate for leftovers: The flavors deepen overnight, making leftover soup even tastier the next day!
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Completing your meal with side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some great options to consider alongside your Ham and Bean Soup.
- Cornbread: This slightly sweet bread pairs wonderfully with savory soups, offering a delightful contrast in flavors.
- Roasted Vegetables: A mix of roasted seasonal vegetables brings color and nutrition to your meal.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Bread: Warm garlic bread is perfect for dipping into your soup, enhancing its flavors with every bite.
- Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad adds heartiness without overpowering the main dish; it’s great served cold.
- Pickles or Relish Tray: Providing pickles adds a zesty touch that complements the food beautifully, enhancing flavors.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing finish after enjoying the rich soup.
- Stuffed Peppers: For something more filling, stuffed peppers can be served as an additional hearty side dish that pairs nicely with bean soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Ham and Bean Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some common mistakes to watch out for.
- Skipping the soaking step: Not soaking the beans can lead to uneven cooking. Always soak them overnight for the best texture.
- Overcooking vegetables: Adding vegetables too early can cause them to become mushy. Sauté them just enough before adding the liquid.
- Neglecting seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Remember to check flavors before serving.
- Using too much salt: Since ham is often salty, avoid adding too much salt initially. Taste as you go for the perfect balance.
- Not discarding the bay leaf: Forgetting to remove the bay leaf at the end can lead to an unpleasant flavor. Always remember to take it out before serving.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover soup in an airtight container.
- Ham and bean soup will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags for storage.
- The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Reheat on medium heat in a pot, stirring regularly until warmed thoroughly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.
Can I use canned beans instead?
Yes, you can use canned beans; just rinse them well and add them towards the end of cooking.
What type of ham should I use?
Any leftover ham works well, but smoked ham adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
How do I thicken my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
You can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or add a cornstarch slurry for thickness.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Absolutely! The Ham and Bean Soup freezes well, making it great for meal prep.
Can I add other ingredients?
Feel free to customize your soup with other vegetables or spices based on your preferences!
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only a fantastic way to use leftover ham but also offers warmth and comfort during chilly days. Its versatility allows you to add your favorite ingredients, making it a true crowd-pleaser. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Approximately 8 servings 1x
Description
Looking for a delicious way to use up leftover holiday ham? This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is the perfect solution! Packed with flavor and nutrients, this hearty soup combines tender navy beans, savory ham, and a medley of vegetables to create a warm and comforting dish ideal for cold winter days. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite ingredients. Plus, it’s great for meal prep—make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or freeze portions for quick dinners later on. Whether shared with family or served at gatherings, this soup is sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 2–3 cups chopped ham
- 64 oz chicken stock
- 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 chopped onion
- 4 chopped carrots
- 2 sliced celery stalks
- 5 chopped garlic cloves
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- bay leaf
- garlic powder
- Italian herbs
- cracked pepper
Instructions
- Rinse the dried beans under cold water and soak them overnight in a bowl covered with water.
- In a large Dutch oven, heat oil over high heat and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Add soaked beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juice), bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for about 90 minutes. Stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage; cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes.
- Taste before serving; adjust salt if necessary and discard the bay leaf.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 540mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
