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 and is sure to warm you up. Whether you’re serving it at a cozy family gathering or enjoying a bowl by yourself, this soup stands out with its rich flavors and comforting ingredients.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Prepare: This recipe requires simple steps, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs.
- Great for Leftovers: Transform your leftover holiday ham into a delicious new dish that everyone will love.
- Nutritious and Filling: Packed with beans and vegetables, this soup provides essential nutrients while being hearty enough to satisfy hunger.
- Versatile Meal Option: Perfect for lunch or dinner, and can be paired with bread or served on its own!
- Makes Great Leftovers: The flavors deepen as the soup sits, making it even tastier the next day.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, it’s important to gather the right tools. Having these essentials ready will streamline your experience and make preparation easier.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Dutch oven pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Large mixing spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Dutch oven pot: Ideal for slow cooking; retains heat evenly, ensuring all ingredients are perfectly cooked.
- Cutting board: Provides a stable surface for chopping vegetables safely and efficiently.
- Knife: A sharp knife is crucial for quickly preparing ingredients without hassle.
Ingredients
Dried 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
Meat
- 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 dried beans thoroughly under cold water. Cover them with several inches of water in a large bowl. Soak beans overnight to soften them, then rinse again before cooking.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large Dutch oven pot over high heat, heat oil until shimmering. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 4–5 minutes while stirring occasionally. Then add garlic; sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
To the sautéed vegetables, add rinsed beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juices), bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the pot slightly ajar. Allow the soup to simmer for about 90 minutes. Check bean consistency; if they are still firm, continue cooking for another 30 minutes.
Step 5: Add Ham and Cabbage
Remove the lid from the pot. Stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage. Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through. Taste and adjust salt as needed—this will vary depending on the saltiness of your ham. Discard bay leaf before serving.
This delicious Ham and Bean Soup Recipe not only uses up those leftovers but also brings warmth and satisfaction to any winter meal!
How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Serving your Ham and Bean Soup can enhance the experience of this hearty dish. Here are some creative ways to enjoy it.
With Crusty Bread
- Sourdough or Baguette: A slice of warm, crusty sourdough or a freshly baked baguette pairs perfectly, allowing you to soak up every drop of soup.
- Garlic Bread: The buttery garlic flavor complements the savory ham and beans beautifully.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Chopped Parsley: Sprinkle fresh parsley on top for a burst of color and nutrition.
- Green Onions: Thinly sliced green onions add a mild onion flavor that lifts the soup.
Accompanied by Salad
- Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crispness and a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the soup.
- Mixed Greens: A simple mixed greens salad with vinaigrette offers freshness and acidity.
With Cheese
- Shredded Cheddar: Add a handful of shredded cheddar cheese on top for extra creaminess.
- Parmesan Cheese: Grate fresh Parmesan over the soup for a nutty flavor enhancement.
How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
To make your Ham and Bean Soup even better, keep these tips in mind.
- Soak Beans Overnight: This helps the beans cook evenly and reduces cooking time.
- Use Homemade Stock: For enhanced flavor, use homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought.
- Adjust Seasoning Carefully: Taste your soup before adding salt; leftover ham may already be salty.
- Add Vegetables Freely: Feel free to include other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrients.
- Let It Sit: Allowing the soup to sit for a few hours or overnight lets flavors meld together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can create a complete meal. Here are some great options:
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread is a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add texture and color to your meal.
- Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges provide crunch and satisfaction alongside the smoothness of the soup.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers a refreshing contrast to the warm, hearty soup.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf can absorb some broth, enhancing each bite with flavor.
- Biscuits: Buttery biscuits serve as perfect accompaniments, making every spoonful delightful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making Ham and Bean Soup can be simple, but a few common errors can lead to disappointing results. Here are some mistakes to watch for.
- Skipping the soaking step – Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to longer cooking time and uneven texture. Always soak dried beans to ensure they cook evenly.
- Ignoring seasoning – Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can make your soup bland. Regularly taste your soup as it cooks, and adjust salt and spices as needed.
- Overcrowding the pot – Adding too many ingredients at once may prevent proper cooking. Stick to the recipe’s order and add ingredients gradually for even cooking.
- Using low-quality ham – Low-quality or overly salty ham can ruin the soup’s flavor. Choose a good quality ham that complements the dish.
- Not checking bean doneness – Cooking beans until they’re just right is crucial. Check for tenderness periodically to avoid mushy beans.
- Neglecting leftovers – Allowing leftover soup to sit for too long can diminish its flavor. Store it properly for future meals.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Keeps fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- Can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Oven – Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in a covered dish until warm throughout, about 20-30 minutes.
- Microwave – Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover with a lid, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring frequently.
- Stovetop – Heat in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some common questions about making Ham and Bean Soup.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
You can use canned beans for convenience. If so, skip the soaking step and reduce cooking time since canned beans are already cooked.
How do I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. You can also use different types of beans based on your preference.
What should I serve with Ham and Bean Soup?
This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh salad. It makes for a hearty meal that’s satisfying on its own too!
How long does homemade Ham and Bean Soup last?
Homemade soup lasts up to 4 days in the refrigerator if stored properly.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only an excellent way to repurpose leftover ham but also delivers warmth on cold days. With its hearty ingredients, this soup is customizable—add your favorite veggies or spices! Give it a try; you’ll love this comforting dish.
Ham and Bean Soup
- Total Time: 2 hours 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 6
Description
Warm up your winter evenings with this comforting Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, a perfect way to utilize your leftover holiday ham. This hearty soup combines tender navy beans, fresh vegetables, and savory seasonings, creating a delicious meal that is both nutritious and filling. Ideal for family gatherings or solo dinners, this easy recipe allows you to indulge in rich flavors while keeping preparation simple. Whether you serve it with crusty bread or enjoy it on its own, every spoonful offers warmth and satisfaction.
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 oz chicken stock
- 14.5 oz can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
- bay leaf
- garlic powder
- dried Italian herbs
- fresh cracked pepper
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the dried beans overnight in water; rinse again before cooking.
- In a large Dutch oven over high heat, sauté onion, carrots, and celery in oil for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for an additional minute.
- Add rinsed beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes (with juices), bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and cracked pepper; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for about 90 minutes until beans are tender.
- Stir in chopped ham and cabbage; cook for an additional 15-20 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning as needed.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 150 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
