Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

Why Make This Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially one that has stood the test of time like Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup. This hearty dish embodies home cooking at its finest. With its rich flavors and filling ingredients, it’s perfect for cozy dinners, chilly days, or even just when you need a warm hug in a bowl. Made from simple, wholesome ingredients, this soup not only warms your body but also nourishes your soul.

How to Make Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

Creating this classic soup is straightforward and rewarding, mostly requiring patience as it simmers. Using a slow cooker makes the process even easier, allowing flavors to meld beautifully without constant supervision. The combination of tender beans, savory ham, and fresh vegetables creates a delightful medley that fills your home with an irresistible aroma. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe will guide you step-by-step to deliciousness.

Ingredients:

• 1 ham bone
• 1 cup dried beans (e.g., navy or great northern beans)
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

1. Soak the dried beans overnight in cold water. Drain and rinse before using.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the ham bone, soaked beans, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beans are tender.
4. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat from the bone, and return the meat to the soup.
5. Serve hot with cornbread and enjoy!

Nutritional Information

Per serving (approximately one cup):

• Calories: 250
• Total Fat: 10g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Cholesterol: 25mg
• Sodium: 600mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 30g
• Dietary Fiber: 8g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 15g

This soup is not only delicious but offers a great source of protein and fiber, making it a well-rounded meal option.

How to Serve Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

Serving this soup is simple yet rewarding. Ladle it into a bowl while it’s steaming hot. Garnish it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Pair it with a slice of warm cornbread or a crusty bread roll for a satisfying meal. It’s also excellent alongside a simple green salad for extra crunch and nutrition.

How to Store Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

To store leftovers, allow the soup to cool down to room temperature. Transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. Make sure to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.

Expert Tips for Perfect Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

• Soaking the Beans: Don’t skip soaking the beans overnight. This step reduces cooking time and helps to soften them for a creamy texture.
• Flavor Boost: If you want to enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce during cooking.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
• Meat Choices: If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use diced ham or even smoked sausage for a different twist.

Delicious Variations

• Smoky Flavor: Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke for a deeper smoky flavor.
• Vegetarian Option: Replace the ham bone with vegetable broth and add a variety of greens like kale or spinach for a vegetarian version.
• Spicy Twist: Incorporate diced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans. Just skip the soaking step and reduce cooking time accordingly. Add the canned beans in the last hour of cooking to heat them through.

2. How can I thicken the soup?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a masher to lightly mash some beans against the side of the slow cooker or stir in a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water before serving.

3. What can I serve with ham and bean soup?
Cornbread, crusty bread, or a fresh garden salad pair beautifully with this soup. You can also offer a side of pickles or coleslaw for contrast.

Conclusion

Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm tradition that brings comfort and nourishment. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, this soup is perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. So gather your ingredients and give this classic recipe a try. You’ll not only enjoy the delectable flavors but also create new memories around the dinner table. Happy cooking!

Old-Fashioned Ham and Bean Soup

A comforting and hearty soup made with ham, beans, and fresh vegetables that's perfect for cozy dinners.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 15 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American

Calories: 250

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

Main Ingredients

• 1 piece ham bone
• 1 cup dried beans (e.g., navy or great northern beans) Soaked overnight
• 2 pieces carrots, diced
• 2 pieces celery stalks, diced
• 1 piece onion, chopped
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 leaf bay leaf
• to taste salt
• to taste pepper

Method

 

Preparation

1. Soak the dried beans overnight in cold water. Drain and rinse before using.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the ham bone, soaked beans, carrots, celery, onion, chicken broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.

Cooking

1. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beans are tender.
2. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat from the bone, and return the meat to the soup.

Serving

1. Serve hot with cornbread and enjoy!

Notes

For variations, consider adding Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce during cooking for extra flavor. You can also add potatoes or bell peppers for added nutrition.