Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to use your ham leftovers in an entirely new dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold Winter day, making it ideal for family gatherings or cozy nights at home. With its hearty flavors and simple preparation, this soup will quickly become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With straightforward steps, you can have this delicious soup ready with minimal effort.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this dish is nutritious and satisfying.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for using leftover ham, it’s a great way to reduce food waste while enjoying a new dish.
• Comforting Flavor: The blend of spices and vegetables creates a warm, inviting taste that’s perfect for chilly days.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the combination of beans and ham, making it a hit for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather the essential tools that will make cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Dutch oven pot
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Dutch oven pot: Ideal for slow cooking soups, allowing flavors to meld beautifully.
• Chef’s knife: Ensures quick and safe chopping of ingredients, saving you time in prep.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring without scratching your pot’s surface, maintaining its condition.

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you’ll need for the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe:

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)
• 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 the Protein & Greens

• 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: Rinse and Soak the Beans

1. Rinse dried beans thoroughly under cold water.
2. Cover beans with several inches of water in a bowl or pot.
3. Soak beans overnight; this helps them cook evenly.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes while stirring until they soften.
3. Stir in finely chopped garlic; sauté for another 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add soaked beans to the pot along with chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to low and let it simmer.
3. Cover slightly ajar; cook for about 90 minutes. Check consistency of beans—if they’re firm, cook an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

1. Remove lid; stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
2. Cook for another 15–20 minutes until heated through.
3. Taste before serving; add salt if necessary depending on ham’s saltiness.
4. Discard bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy your homemade Ham and Bean Soup!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can elevate the dining experience. Here are some delightful ways to present this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• A slice of warm, crusty bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every delicious drop.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Garnish your soup with fresh parsley or thyme for an added burst of flavor and a touch of color.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad can balance the hearty nature of the soup, providing a refreshing contrast.

In a Bread Bowl

• For a fun twist, serve your soup in a hollowed-out bread bowl. It’s both edible and an eye-catching presentation!

With Cheese

• Sprinkle some shredded cheese on top just before serving for a creamy finish that complements the flavors.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe ensures every bowl is delicious. Here are some tips to make it even better.

• Use Quality Ham: Choose a smoked ham that adds depth to the flavor; leftover holiday ham works great!
• Soak Beans Overnight: This helps them cook evenly and makes them easier to digest.
• Adjust Seasonings: Always taste and adjust seasoning towards the end of cooking for best results.
• Add Vegetables: Customize your soup by adding vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
• Slow Cook for Flavor: If time allows, let the soup simmer longer to develop deeper flavors.
• Store Properly: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days; it tastes even better the next day!

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Complementing your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe with side dishes can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Cornbread
   Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that adds warmth and texture.

2. Garlic Bread
   A side of garlic bread brings additional flavor and is perfect for dipping.

3. Coleslaw
   A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness that contrasts nicely with the rich soup.

4. Steamed Broccoli
   Lightly steamed broccoli adds color and nutrients without overwhelming the meal.

5. Roasted Potatoes
   Crispy roasted potatoes offer a hearty side that complements the soft beans perfectly.

6. Pickles
   Tangy pickles add a zesty crunch that brightens up each spoonful of soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using leftover ham in your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be a delightful experience, but there are some common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to a longer cooking time and uneven texture. Always soak your dried beans before cooking.
• Overlooking Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Be sure to taste your soup before serving, adding salt as needed for flavor.
• Ignoring Bean Consistency: Cooking beans too long or too short can affect their texture. Check the beans after 90 minutes and continue cooking if they’re still firm.
• Adding Ham Too Early: Adding ham at the beginning can make it overly salty or tough. Wait until the last 15-20 minutes of cooking to add it for optimal texture and flavor.
• Neglecting Fresh Ingredients: Using stale spices or old vegetables can diminish flavor. Always use fresh ingredients for a vibrant, delicious soup.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Ham and Bean Soup in an airtight container.
• It will keep for about 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months; just make sure to leave space for expansion.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place soup in an oven-safe dish covered with aluminum foil until heated through.
• Microwave: Transfer soup to a microwave-safe bowl. Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring between, until hot.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some commonly asked questions about this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

You can use canned beans, but reduce cooking time since they’re already cooked. Add them during the last 30 minutes of simmering.

What type of ham is best for this recipe?

Any leftover ham works well, but smoked or honey-glazed ham adds extra flavor to the soup.

How do I thicken my Ham and Bean Soup?

To thicken your soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or stir in a cornstarch slurry as it simmers.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute ham with mushrooms or smoked paprika for flavor, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock.

How long does it take to cook dried navy beans?

Dried navy beans typically take about 90 minutes to cook after soaking overnight, but check for doneness as cooking times may vary.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only comforting but also versatile enough to accommodate various tastes. Feel free to customize it by adding different vegetables or spices according to your preference. Give it a try—your family will love this warm meal!