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 delightful dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold winter day. It’s versatile enough for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings and packed with flavors that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple Preparation: This recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Hearty and Filling: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup will keep you satisfied while warming you up.
- Great for Leftovers: A fantastic way to make use of leftover ham, reducing waste and creating new meals.
- Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of beans, veggies, and spices creates a rich flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
- Freezer-Friendly: You can easily store leftovers in the freezer for future meals without losing flavor.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential kitchen tools to make your experience smooth and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven pot
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Chopping knife
- Cutting board
- Ladle
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven pot: Perfect for simmering soups evenly; it retains heat well, ensuring even cooking.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Essential for accurately measuring ingredients, which is crucial for consistent results.
- Chopping knife: A sharp knife allows for quick and precise chopping of vegetables, saving time in prep.
- Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop ingredients while keeping your kitchen organized.
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 & Seasonings
- 3 Tablespoons Oil
- 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
Protein
- 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
Additional Seasoning
- Salt – to taste (if needed)
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the Beans
Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water. Cover them with several inches of water in a bowl. Soak the beans overnight to soften them, then rinse again before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat oil in a large Dutch oven pot over high heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4-5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Add the finely chopped garlic and sauté for another 30-60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Add the soaked beans to the pot along with chicken stock, fire roasted diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and fresh cracked pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to simmer. Cover the pot slightly ajar and cook for about 90 minutes. Check the consistency of the beans; if they are still firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage
Remove the lid from the pot. Stir in the chopped ham and shredded green cabbage. Cook for another 15-20 minutes until everything is heated through. Taste the soup and add salt as needed—this will depend on how salty your ham is. Discard the bay leaf before serving.
Enjoy this hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, perfect as a main course on chilly days!
How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Serving your Ham and Bean Soup can elevate this comforting dish into a full meal. Here are some delightful suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
With Fresh Bread
- Crusty Baguette – A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
- Cornbread – Sweet cornbread adds a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the soup.
Topped with Greens
- Fresh Parsley – Chopped parsley adds color and freshness.
- Chopped Green Onions – Sprinkle on top for a bit of crunch and sharpness.
Accompanied by Salads
- Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad complements the hearty soup nicely.
- Coleslaw – The crunch of coleslaw contrasts well with the soft texture of the soup.
With Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar – Melted cheddar cheese on top can add richness.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated Parmesan offers a salty finish that enhances the flavors.
How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
To ensure your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe turns out delicious every time, consider these tips.
- Soak Beans Overnight – Soaking beans helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
- Use Quality Stock – A good chicken stock enhances the overall flavor of the soup.
- Adjust Seasoning Gradually – Taste as you go; adjust salt and spices based on your preference.
- Add Vegetables for Variety – Experiment with different vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Store Leftovers Properly – Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.
- Reheat Gently – When reheating, do so slowly on low heat to retain texture and flavor.
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can create a more satisfying meal. Here are some great options to consider.
- Garlic Bread – A flavorful way to enjoy every last drop of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables – Carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers roasted bring out natural sweetness.
- Potato Salad – Creamy potato salad provides a refreshing contrast to the warm soup.
- Rice Pilaf – Lightly seasoned rice pilaf serves as a great base alongside the soup.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches – Classic comfort food that pairs wonderfully with soups.
- Stuffed Peppers – Bell peppers stuffed with rice and meat offer a hearty addition.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making a delicious Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be simple, but there are common pitfalls that can affect the final dish. Avoiding these mistakes will ensure your soup is perfect every time.
- Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to longer cooking times and tougher beans. Always soak dried beans to soften them before cooking.
- Ignoring Seasoning: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can make your soup bland. Remember, the saltiness of ham varies, so check your soup before serving!
- Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can lower the cooking temperature. Cook in batches if necessary to maintain the right heat.
- Neglecting Consistency Checks: If you don’t check the beans’ doneness during cooking, they might end up undercooked or mushy. Stir and taste periodically for best results.
- Forgetting to Discard Bay Leaf: Leaving the bay leaf in when serving can result in a bitter taste. Always remember to remove it before enjoying your soup.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Duration: Store leftover Ham and Bean Soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Containers: Use airtight containers to keep the soup fresh and prevent odors from spreading.
Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Duration: You can freeze this soup for up to 3 months.
- Containers: Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the soup in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 30 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer a portion of soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir occasionally until heated through, usually about 10-15 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best type of beans for Ham and Bean Soup?
Navy beans are traditionally used in this recipe because of their creamy texture. Great Northern beans also work well as a substitute.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans for this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. Just reduce cooking time by half since they’re already cooked.
How do I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or spinach for extra nutrition, or change up herbs based on what you have available!
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock along with your favorite legumes.
How long does it take to cook Ham and Bean Soup?
The total time includes soaking beans overnight (not counted in cooking time) plus about 2 hours for preparation and cooking on the stovetop.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only an excellent way to use leftover ham but also a comforting meal perfect for winter nights. Its versatility allows you to customize it with various veggies or spices based on your preferences. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!
Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: About 6 servings 1x
Description
Transform your holiday leftovers into a delightful meal with this hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. Perfect for chilly days, this comforting dish combines tender navy beans, succulent ham, and aromatic vegetables, creating a rich and flavorful experience. Not only is it simple to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights, but it’s also nutritious and filling. Whether you’re enjoying it solo or serving it at a cozy gathering, this soup is sure to please everyone at the table. Plus, it’s freezer-friendly, allowing you to savor the flavors long after the holidays are over.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 2–3 cups chopped ham
- 1 white onion (chopped)
- 4 carrots (chopped)
- 2 celery stalks (sliced)
- 5 garlic cloves (finely chopped)
- 2 cups shredded green cabbage
- 64 ounces chicken stock
- 14.5 ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Bay leaf
- Garlic powder
- Dried Italian herbs
- Fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the dried navy beans overnight in water.
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over high heat. Sauté the onion, carrots, and celery for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Stir in soaked beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper. Bring to a boil; reduce heat to simmer for about 90 minutes or until beans are tender.
- Add chopped ham and cabbage; cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 9g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
