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 cozy, delicious meal. This easy and healthy dish is perfect for family dinners or gatherings, especially on a chilly winter day. The rich flavors and comforting texture make it a standout choice for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, making ham and bean soup is a breeze.
- Flavorful: The combination of spices and the richness of the ham create a deep, satisfying flavor profile.
- Versatile: This soup can be served as a main dish or paired with bread for a hearty meal.
- Healthy Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this recipe is a nutritious way to enjoy your leftovers.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: Leftovers can be stored easily, making it great for busy weeknights.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline the cooking process.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven: Ideal for simmering soups, it retains heat well and allows even cooking.
- Knife: A sharp knife ensures quick chopping of vegetables, saving you time in preparation.
- Cutting board: Provides a sturdy surface for cutting ingredients safely and efficiently.
Ingredients
For the Soup Base
- 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 1 White Onion (chopped)
- 4 Carrots (chopped)
- 2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
- 5 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped)
For Flavor
- 64 ounces Chicken Stock
- 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
- 1 Bay Leaf
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
- 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
- Fresh Cracked Pepper
For Filling
- 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage
- 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
- Salt – to taste (if needed)
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Soak the Beans
- Rinse dried beans thoroughly under cold water.
- Cover with several inches of water in a large bowl.
- Soak beans overnight; rinse again before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
- Heat oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Incorporate finely chopped garlic; sauté for an additional 30 to 60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add soaked beans, chicken stock, fire roasted tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil before reducing heat to low.
- Cover the pot with the lid slightly ajar; let it simmer for 90 minutes.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage
- Check the consistency of the beans; if still firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
- Remove the lid; stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
- Cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes; season with salt to taste if necessary (adjust based on ham’s saltiness).
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe offers not just comfort but also an efficient way to use up leftover holiday ham while providing wholesome nutrition!
How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Serving your Ham and Bean Soup is a delightful experience, especially on a chilly day. This hearty soup pairs well with various accompaniments that enhance its flavors and make for a satisfying meal.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: The tangy flavor of sourdough or the crusty texture of a baguette complements the soup perfectly. Serve slices warm, allowing guests to dip into their bowls.
With Fresh Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness. The creamy dressing balances the richness of the soup.
With Cornbread
- Sweet Cornbread: The sweetness of cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory ham and bean soup. It’s perfect for soaking up every last drop.
With Pickles
- Dill Pickles: A side of dill pickles adds a zesty contrast to the rich flavors of the soup, providing a refreshing crunch.
With Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Topping your bowl with shredded cheddar cheese creates a creamy texture that melts beautifully into the warm soup.
With Hot Sauce
- Spicy Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy heat, adding a splash of hot sauce can elevate the flavors and give an exciting kick to each spoonful.
How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Making the perfect Ham and Bean Soup requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your soup turns out delicious every time.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality ham will enhance the flavor profile of your soup significantly.
- Soak Beans Overnight: Soaking dried beans helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. It also makes them easier to digest.
- Adjust Seasonings: Taste your soup before serving. You may want to adjust salt, pepper, or spices according to your preference.
- Simmer Slowly: Allowing the soup to simmer slowly melds all the flavors together, resulting in a richer taste.
- Store Properly: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days or freeze for later use.
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread: Toasted bread slathered in garlic butter enhances the overall flavor. Perfect for dipping!
- Steamed Vegetables: A mix of colorful steamed veggies adds nutrition and balances out the heaviness of the soup.
- Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a satisfying contrast that complements the heartiness of the soup.
- Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity that brightens up each bite of hearty soup.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: The nutty taste of roasted Brussels sprouts pairs well with savory flavors of ham.
- Fruit Salad: A light fruit salad offers a refreshing sweetness that contrasts well with savory dishes like this soup.
- Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein, quinoa salad adds health benefits while being light enough not to overshadow your main dish.
- Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with vinaigrette brings added texture and flavor complexity alongside your warm soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Using leftover ham can be tricky. Here are some common mistakes to watch for when making your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.
- Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking dried beans overnight can lead to hard beans in your soup. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly.
- Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long at the beginning can make them mushy. Sauté them just until tender to maintain their texture.
- Ignoring Bean Consistency: If you don’t check the beans during cooking, they may become too soft or remain hard. Taste test halfway through to adjust cooking time.
- Not Adjusting Seasoning: Forgetting to taste for seasoning before serving can lead to bland soup. Always taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed.
- Adding Ham Too Early: Adding ham at the start can make it dry out. Add it towards the end of cooking for better flavor and moisture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Consume within 3-4 days for best quality.
Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Freeze in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags.
- 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.
- Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Heat in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about this delicious Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
You can use canned beans! Just skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time since canned beans are already soft.
How do I make a vegetarian version of Ham and Bean Soup?
To make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and add more vegetables or a plant-based protein for flavor.
What side dishes go well with Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
Serve with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that complements the soup’s flavors.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or potatoes according to your taste preferences.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is perfect for using up leftover ham while creating a comforting meal. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various ingredients based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate to try different veggies or spices to make it your own!
Ham and Bean Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Description
Transform your leftover holiday ham into a heartwarming Ham and Bean Soup that’s perfect for chilly days. This easy-to-make recipe combines tender navy beans, fresh vegetables, and flavorful spices to create a nourishing dish that warms both body and soul. With its rich, savory taste and comforting texture, this soup is ideal for family dinners or gatherings. Simple enough for novice cooks yet satisfying for seasoned chefs, it’s a delightful way to repurpose leftovers into a wholesome meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 3 tablespoons oil
- 1 white onion (chopped)
- 4 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 5 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 64 ounces chicken stock
- 14.5 ounce can fire roasted diced tomatoes
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- Fresh cracked pepper
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 2–3 cups chopped ham
- Salt – to taste (if needed)
Instructions
- Rinse beans and soak overnight in water.
- Heat oil in a Dutch oven; sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
- Stir in soaked beans, chicken stock, tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 90 minutes.
- Add ham and cabbage; cook uncovered for an additional 15-20 minutes. Adjust seasoning with salt if needed.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 13g
- Protein: 21g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
