ham and bean soup recipes

The smell of ham and bean soup on the stove brought back memories of my grandmother’s kitchen. It’s more than a meal; it’s a warm hug of tradition, nourishment, and love.

For generations, ham and bean soup has been a favorite in American homes. It turns simple ingredients into a delicious, comforting dish. It’s perfect for using leftover holiday ham or for a meal that’s easy on the wallet and feeds many.

This timeless recipe is loved by busy families and home cooks alike. It offers warmth and comfort in every spoonful. Let’s uncover the secrets to making a truly amazing ham and bean soup that will be a hit in your kitchen.

Understanding the Magic of Ham and Bean Soup

Making the perfect pork and bean soup is all about finding the right mix of ingredients and techniques. Navy bean soup is a classic that warms your heart and fills your belly. It combines rich flavors with nutritious goodness.

To make a tasty smoked ham soup, you need to pick the right parts. Your soup’s success depends on three key things: the type of bean, the quality of the ham, and the cooking tools you use.

Choosing the Right Beans

Picking the perfect beans is key for your soup’s taste and texture. Here are some top bean picks:

• Great Northern Beans: Mild, delicate flavor
• Navy Beans: Creamy and soft texture
• Cannellini Beans: Larger, robust white beans
• Small White Beans: Tender and quick-cooking

Selecting Premium Ham

The flavor of your soup comes from the quality of the ham. Smoked ham shanks or ham hocks give the best taste. Look for meat that’s rich in marbling and has a strong smoky smell.

Essential Cooking Equipment

The right tools make your soup go from good to great. Here are the must-haves:

• Large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot
• Slow cooker for hands-off preparation
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Your journey to making ham and bean soup starts with knowing these basics. With the right ingredients and tools, you’ll make a dish that warms the soul every time.

The Art of Bean Preparation and Soaking

Preparing beans is key to making a great bean soup. Navy beans are perfect for southern style soups. They have a creamy texture and a mild flavor.

Before starting your bean soup, follow these important steps:

• Sort through dried navy beans carefully, removing any broken or discolored pieces
• Rinse beans thoroughly under cool running water
• Select between two soaking methods to prepare your beans

Soaking Methods for Perfect Beans

1. Quick Soak Method:
   • Boil beans for 2 minutes
   • Let stand for 1 hour in hot water
   • Drain and rinse before cooking
2. Overnight Soak Method:
   • Cover beans with cold water
   • Leave at room temperature
   • Drain and rinse in the morning

If navy beans aren’t available, you can use Great Northern, cannellini, or small white beans. Navy beans are the smallest white beans. They cook quickly and become very creamy.

Whether you soak or not, your beans will be tender in the slow cooker. For a quicker option, use canned beans. Just rinse and drain 4 cups of pinto or navy beans.

Ham and Bean Soup: Traditional Recipe Steps

Making a hearty soup that everyone loves needs careful steps. This traditional ham and bean soup recipe will show you how to make a delicious meal.

Preparing the Ham Bone

Begin by rinsing navy beans under cold water to get rid of any dirt. The secret to a flavorful soup is in how you prepare your ham bone. Pick a smoked ham hock or bone for deep, smoky tastes.

• Rinse navy beans thoroughly
• Choose a high-quality smoked ham hock
• Prepare to simmer the ham bone for maximum flavor extraction

Adding Vegetables and Seasonings

The heart of a great soup is its aromatic vegetables. Heat olive oil and butter in a big pot. Then, cook your vegetables to bring out their best.

1. Dice onions and cook until soft and translucent
2. Add diced carrots and minced garlic
3. Incorporate ham pieces for additional flavor

Cooking Time and Temperature

Getting the soup just right is key. Mix your ingredients with chicken broth, water, and spices.

• Add chicken broth and water
• Include onion powder, bay leaf, and thyme sprigs
• Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer

Simmer the soup for 3+ hours with a lid that’s not fully closed. Stir now and then to keep the beans from sticking. Before you serve, take out the ham bone, bay leaf, and thyme stems.

Nutritional bonus: Each serving has about 212 calories, 13g of protein, and 9g of fiber. It’s tasty and good for you!

Slow Cooker Method for Ultimate Flavor

Making a hearty soup in a slow cooker is easy and fun. It turns your ham and bean soup into a tasty meal with little work. The slow cooker method helps create deep flavors while keeping your kitchen cool and your hands free.

Creating your slow cooker bean soup is a simple yet magical process. Begin by arranging your ingredients in a way that maximizes flavor. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the perfect slow cooker bean soup:

• Select Great Northern or navy beans for the best texture
• Use a smoked ham bone or ham hock for deep flavor
• Layer ingredients carefully to ensure even cooking

Cooking times can vary based on your slow cooker model. For a classic slow cooker bean soup, follow these guidelines:

• Low setting: 7-9 hours
• High setting: 4-5 hours

Pro tip: Sauté your vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions before adding them to the slow cooker. This step will boost the flavor in your hearty soup, making it more complex.

The secret to a great slow cooker bean soup is patience. Let the slow, steady heat work its magic. It will turn simple ingredients into a rich, comforting meal that warms you from the inside out.

Secret Tips for Rich and Flavorful Broth

Making a great smoked ham soup is more than just using basic ingredients. It’s about creating deep, complex flavors. These flavors turn a simple southern style soup into a true masterpiece.

Creating the perfect ham and bean soup is an art. It needs attention to detail and smart flavor building. Let’s look at some professional tips to make your soup amazing.

Seasoning Techniques

Your seasoning can make or break the soup’s taste. Here are some expert tips:

• Use fresh aromatic herbs like thyme and bay leaves
• Add smoked paprika for depth
• Try subtle spices like nutmeg
• Wait to add salt until the end of cooking

Thickening Methods

A rich, hearty soup needs the right consistency. Try these natural thickening methods:

1. Mash a portion of beans directly in the pot
2. Blend a small amount of soup and return to the pot
3. Use pureed vegetables as a natural thickener

Flavor Enhancement Strategies

The secret to a memorable smoked ham soup is layering flavors. Start by sautéing your ham bone with onions and garlic. This builds a strong flavor base.

Simmer the soup slowly—ideally 60-90 minutes. This lets the flavors mix and get complex.

Pro tip: Use high-quality leftover ham with a good balance of fat and meat. This gives your soup rich, savory flavor without being greasy.

Storage and Leftover Management

Your delicious family favorite meal doesn’t have to end after the first serving. Proper storage can help you enjoy your hearty soup for several days, maximizing both flavor and convenience.

Refrigeration is key to preserving your soup’s quality. Follow these essential storage guidelines:

• Cool the soup completely before storing
• Use airtight containers to prevent flavor loss
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days

Freezing offers an excellent way to extend the life of your hearty soup. Pro tip: Portion your soup into individual servings for easier thawing and reheating.

Freezing instructions:

1. Use freezer-safe plastic containers
2. Leave some space at the top for expansion
3. Freeze for up to 3 months
4. Label containers with the date

When reheating your family favorite meal, add a little broth or water to restore the original consistency. Stovetop reheating typically provides the best results, helping maintain the soup’s rich texture and deep flavors.

A bonus tip: Many home cooks find that ham and bean soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld and develop. Don’t be afraid to make a large batch and enjoy it throughout the week!

Conclusion

Ham and bean soup is a classic comfort food that turns simple ingredients into a warm meal. You now know how to make a tasty, affordable dish that your family will love. You can use Instant Pot or slow cooker methods, making it easy to fit into your kitchen and schedule.

This soup is great because it’s flexible and easy to make. Using leftover ham makes it a nutritious and smart choice. You can try different beans, veggies, and spices to make each batch your own.

Ham and bean soup is perfect for meal prep or feeding a big family. It’s only 259 calories per serving and has 18g of protein. Plus, you can freeze it for up to two months for quick meals.

Mastering ham and bean soup is just the beginning. Every time you make it, you’ll get better and find new flavors. Enjoy the simplicity and warmth of your cooking!

FAQ

How long do I need to soak beans for ham and bean soup?

Soak dried beans overnight (8-12 hours) in cold water for the best results. If time is short, use a quick-soak method. Boil beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for 1 hour before cooking. This method reduces cooking time and makes beans easier to digest.

Can I make ham and bean soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, slow cookers are great for ham and bean soup. They let flavors blend slowly and make beans tender. Just layer your ingredients and cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours. This ensures the soup is thick and the beans are fully cooked.

What are the best types of beans to use in ham and bean soup?

Navy beans are traditional, but great northern, pinto, or white beans work too. Each type has a unique texture and taste. Navy beans are creamy and soak up ham flavor well.

How long can I store leftover ham and bean soup?

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days. Freeze it for up to 3 months for longer storage. Always cool the soup before storing and reheat it well before serving.

Do I need to use a ham bone, or can I use other ham?

A ham bone adds the most flavor, but you can use diced ham, ham hocks, or smoked ham shanks too. Choose a ham with fat and bone for the best taste.

How can I thicken my ham and bean soup?

Thicken the soup by mashing beans against the pot, using a potato masher, or adding a cornstarch slurry. You can also simmer the soup uncovered to thicken it naturally.

Is ham and bean soup nutritious?

Yes, it’s nutritious! Beans are full of protein, fiber, and minerals. Ham adds protein and flavor. Adding more veggies like carrots, celery, and onions makes it even healthier.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, make it vegetarian by skipping the ham and using vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for smoky flavor. Use smoked veggies or vegetarian ham alternatives for similar taste.