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, bringing warmth and comfort to your table. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is suitable for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for both beginner and experienced cooks.
• Flavorful and Hearty: The combination of ham and beans creates a rich, satisfying dish that warms you from the inside out.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever leftover ham you have on hand, making it a flexible meal option for any occasion.
• Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not just delicious but also healthy.
• Great for Meal Prep: This soup stores well, allowing you to enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Tools and Preparation

To make your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe successfully, you’ll need a few essential tools. Having the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and help you achieve the best results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large dutch oven pot
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Large dutch oven pot: Ideal for simmering soups evenly, ensuring all ingredients cook perfectly together.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop vegetables, keeping your kitchen organized.
• Sharp knife: Makes chopping easier and safer, reducing prep time significantly.

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 Additions

• 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: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse dried beans thoroughly.
2. Cover beans with several inches of water.
3. Soak beans overnight; rinse again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and sliced celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes while stirring.
3. Incorporate finely chopped garlic; sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add rinsed beans to the pot along with chicken stock, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low; cover slightly ajar. Simmer for 90 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

1. Check the consistency of beans after 90 minutes; if they are still firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
2. Remove lid; add chopped ham and cabbage into the pot.
3. Cook for another 15–20 minutes until heated through. Adjust salt as needed before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Ham and Bean Soup!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving Ham and Bean Soup is a delightful experience that enhances its comforting qualities. Here are some creative ways to present this delicious dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Loaf: A warm slice of sourdough pairs perfectly with the soup’s rich flavors.
• Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky taste complements the soup wonderfully.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley: Sprinkling fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh taste.
• Thyme Leaves: A few thyme leaves can enhance the aroma and flavor profile.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Shredded Cheddar: Melting cheddar cheese on top creates a creamy texture.
• Parmesan Shavings: A sprinkle of parmesan adds a salty bite that’s simply irresistible.

Served in a Bread Bowl

• Edible Bowls: Using small bread bowls makes for an entertaining presentation and an edible dish!

With a Side Salad

• Caesar Salad: The crispness of romaine and tangy dressing contrasts nicely with the hearty soup.
• Coleslaw: A refreshing coleslaw brings crunch and brightness to the meal.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Making the perfect Ham and Bean Soup involves some key techniques. Here are tips to elevate your soup-making game.

• Use Quality Ingredients: High-quality ham and fresh vegetables make all the difference in flavor.
• Soak Beans Overnight: This helps ensure the beans cook evenly and become tender faster.
• Adjust Seasoning Gradually: Taste as you go, especially with salt, to avoid over-seasoning.
• Simmer Slowly: A slow simmer allows flavors to meld beautifully, creating a richer broth.
• Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for an extra kick.
• Store Properly: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to five days for best freshness.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options.

1. Cornbread: Sweet and moist cornbread is a classic companion, perfect for soaking up the soup.
2. Biscuits: Flaky biscuits provide a buttery contrast that makes every bite enjoyable.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrition alongside your soup.
4. Potato Salad: Creamy potato salad offers a cool counterbalance to the warmth of the soup.
5. Green Beans: Steamed green beans add freshness and crunch, making them an ideal side.
6. Rice Pilaf: Lightly seasoned rice pilaf is great for those who want something filling without overshadowing the soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ham and Bean Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls that can affect the flavor and texture of your dish. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to a longer cooking time and less tender beans. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly.
• Overcooking the Vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long before adding the broth can make them mushy. Sauté just until they’re slightly soft for the best texture.
• Ignoring Seasoning: Forgetting to adjust salt can make your soup bland. Taste as you go, especially since ham can add saltiness on its own.
• Using Old Beans: Using old beans can result in a tough texture. Always check the expiration date and use fresh beans for better results.
• Not Discarding the Bay Leaf: Leaving the bay leaf in the soup when serving can lead to a bitter taste. Remember to remove it before serving.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Ham and Bean Soup will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Heat in microwave-safe bowls, covering loosely. Heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Pour into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally for about 10-15 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this comforting meal, we’ve got answers!

What is the focus keyphrase Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

The focus keyphrase refers to this specific recipe that combines ham and beans in a delicious soup format, perfect for using leftovers.

Can I make Ham and Bean Soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can replace ham with mushrooms or smoked tempeh for a vegetarian version while keeping all other ingredients intact.

How long does it take to cook Ham and Bean Soup?

The total cooking time is approximately 2 hours after soaking the beans overnight.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans in this recipe?

Absolutely! If using canned beans, reduce cooking time significantly as they are already cooked. Just add them towards the end of cooking.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not just a great way to use leftover ham; it’s also a cozy meal perfect for chilly days. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s easy to customize by adding more vegetables or spices according to your taste preferences. Give it a try and enjoy its warmth and satisfaction!