Why Make This Easy Ham and Bean Soup
When it comes to comforting meals, Easy Ham and Bean Soup reigns supreme. This dish combines the savory taste of leftover ham with the hearty texture of beans, making each bowl a warming delight. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a cozy lunch, it’s a dish that brings satisfaction with every spoonful. Plus, it’s an excellent way to use up leftover ham, ensuring nothing goes to waste. The flavors meld beautifully together, creating a rich and satisfying meal that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.
How to Make Easy Ham and Bean Soup
Making Easy Ham and Bean Soup is straightforward and requires minimal effort. With a few simple ingredients and just one pot, you can whip up this delightful meal in no time! The best part? As it cooks, your kitchen will fill with the warm, inviting aromas of seasoned ham and fresh vegetables, tempting everyone to gather around the table.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups leftover ham, diced
- 1 cup dried beans (navy or great northern), soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Directions:
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Next, add the diced ham, soaked beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
- Bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Before serving, be sure to remove the bay leaf.
Nutritional Information
Per serving (approximately 1 cup):
- Calories: 280
- Total Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 900mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 30g
- Dietary Fiber: 8g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 22g
How to Serve Easy Ham and Bean Soup
Easy Ham and Bean Soup is versatile and can be served in various ways. For a hearty meal, scoop it into a large bowl and pair it with fresh, crusty bread for dipping. Top with a sprinkle of parsley or croutons for added texture. This soup also shines when served as a starter at a casual dinner party or a robust lunch alongside a simple salad.
How to Store Easy Ham and Bean Soup
You can easily store leftovers of Easy Ham and Bean Soup for later enjoyment. Once the soup has cooled completely, transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for about 3-4 days. You can also freeze it for longer storage—just make sure to keep it in freezer-safe containers. It will maintain its quality for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Expert Tips for Perfect Easy Ham and Bean Soup
- Choose Fresh Beans: If you can, buy dried beans from bulk bins rather than packaged ones. They often have a fresher taste and better texture.
- Soaking Beans: Don’t skip the soaking step! It shortens cooking time and helps the beans digest better.
- Add Herbs and Spices: Feel free to add herbs like thyme or rosemary for extra flavor. A dash of hot sauce can also provide a nice kick!
- Adjust Consistency: If your soup is too thick, simply add more broth or water until you reach your desired consistency.
Delicious Variations
- Vegetarian Version: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. Add in more vegetables like spinach or diced potatoes for heartiness.
- Spicy Kick: Include diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes for heat.
- Creamy Variation: Stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream near the end of cooking for a rich finish.
- Different Beans: Experiment with other beans like black beans or pinto beans for a unique take on this soup.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! Just follow the sautéing steps on the stove, then transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
2. What if I don’t have dried beans?
If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans. Rinse and drain them, adding them to the pot in the last 30 minutes of cooking instead of starting with dried beans.
3. Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking beans helps them cook evenly and shortens the cooking time. However, you can use the quick soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour before proceeding with the recipe.
Conclusion
Easy Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting dish that warms both the heart and the stomach. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s the perfect recipe for busy days or chilly nights. The combination of savory ham and tender beans makes this soup a nutritious choice for anyone looking to feed their family well. So, gather your ingredients and give this delightful recipe a try. Don’t forget to share your experience—what variations did you try? Happy cooking!