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 comforting and delicious meal. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for cozy winter evenings and can easily feed a crowd. With its hearty flavors and nutritious ingredients, it stands out as a go-to dish for family gatherings or casual dinners.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy Preparation: This soup requires minimal prep work, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with beans, veggies, and lean ham, it’s a nutritious option for any meal.
- Great for Leftovers: Use up leftover holiday ham in a way that feels fresh and exciting.
- Versatile Flavor: Adjust spices and vegetables according to your taste preferences.
- Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze portions for future meals.
Tools and Preparation
Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure everything goes smoothly. Having the right equipment makes preparing this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe easier and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Large dutch oven pot
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon
Importance of Each Tool
- Large dutch oven pot: Ideal for even heating and simmering the soup until it’s perfectly cooked.
- Sharp knife: Essential for chopping vegetables quickly and safely.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient quantities for consistent flavor.
Ingredients
To make this delicious Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather the following 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
Meat
- 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
Other
- Salt – to taste (if needed)
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
- Rinse dried beans under cold water.
- Cover the beans with several inches of water in a bowl or pot.
- Soak the beans overnight.
- After soaking, rinse them again before using.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Heat oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
- Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot.
- Sauté these vegetables for 4-5 minutes while stirring continuously.
- Stir in finely chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30-60 seconds.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
- Add rinsed beans to the pot along with chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low to let it simmer; cover the pot slightly ajar.
- Cook for 90 minutes; check consistency of beans periodically; if they are still firm, cook for an additional 30 minutes.
Step 4: Final Touches
- Remove the lid from the pot after cooking time is complete.
- Stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage into the soup.
- Cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Taste before serving; add salt as needed based on saltiness of ham.
- Discard bay leaf before serving hot.
This hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only delicious but also an excellent way to utilize leftover ham! Enjoy your meal!
How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Serving your delicious Ham and Bean Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions to complement this hearty dish.
With Crusty Bread
- Freshly baked baguette or sourdough is perfect for dipping into the soup.
Topped with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for added freshness and flavor.
Accompanied by a Side Salad
- A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich soup.
In a Bread Bowl
- Serve the soup in hollowed-out bread bowls for a fun and edible presentation.
With Cheese Toasts
- Melting cheese on toasted bread makes for a delightful, cheesy addition that pairs well with soup.
With Pickled Vegetables
- A side of pickled veggies provides a tangy crunch that balances the savory flavors of the soup.
How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
To ensure your Ham and Bean Soup turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.
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Soak Beans Overnight: This helps soften the beans, reducing cooking time and improving texture.
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Use Quality Stock: A good chicken stock enhances the flavor of your soup significantly.
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Adjust Seasoning: Taste before adding salt; leftover ham may already add enough saltiness.
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Finishing Touches: Add fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary just before serving for an aromatic boost.
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 excellent options to consider:
- Garlic Bread: Crunchy, buttery garlic bread complements the soup’s flavors beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A creamy coleslaw adds a crunchy texture that contrasts well with the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet cornbread brings warmth and sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes provide comfort alongside the hearty soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your meal.
- Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A classic grilled cheese offers gooey goodness that kids and adults love.
- Potato Salad: A chilled potato salad gives a refreshing twist to your dining experience.
- Fruit Salad: Lighten up your meal with a fruity salad that adds natural sweetness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making ham and bean soup can be simple, but some common mistakes can affect the final dish. Here are a few to watch out for:
- Skipping the soaking step: Failing to soak the beans overnight can lead to longer cooking times and tougher beans. Always soak your dried navy beans before use.
- Not adjusting seasoning: Adding too much salt too early can make the soup overly salty. Wait until the end to taste and adjust seasoning based on your ham’s saltiness.
- Ignoring cooking times: Cooking beans for less time than needed may result in undercooked beans. Keep track of your cooking time to ensure they are tender.
- Overcrowding the pot: Trying to cook too many ingredients at once can lead to uneven cooking. Stick to the recipe proportions for best results.
- Using low-quality stock: Poor quality chicken stock can affect the flavor of your soup. Opt for a good-quality stock or homemade for a richer taste.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store in an airtight container.
- Can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
- The soup 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 warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring frequently, until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated throughout.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to store leftover Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
The best way is to refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze it for 3 months.
Can I modify this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
Yes! You can add different vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers, or use various types of beans according to your preference.
How do I thicken my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
You can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon, or add a cornstarch slurry for additional thickness.
What type of ham works best in this recipe?
Any leftover ham works well. Smoked or spiral-cut ham provides great flavor, but you can also use deli ham in a pinch.
Final Thoughts
This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only a wonderful way to use leftovers but also offers versatility for customization. Enjoy it as is, or add your favorite ingredients! You won’t regret trying this warm, comforting dish on a cold day.
Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: Serves approximately 8
Description
Transform your holiday ham leftovers into a warm and satisfying meal with this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. This hearty soup is perfect for cozy winter evenings or family gatherings, offering a delicious way to enjoy nutritious ingredients like navy beans, fresh vegetables, and tender ham. It’s easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights while providing comfort in every bite. Plus, you can customize the flavors and freeze portions for future meals, ensuring you have a tasty dish ready whenever you need it.
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 ounces fire roasted diced tomatoes
- bay leaf
- garlic powder
- dried Italian herbs
- fresh cracked pepper
- salt – to taste (if needed)
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the navy beans overnight.
- In a large dutch oven, heat oil over high heat and sauté onion, carrots, celery for 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add rinsed beans, chicken stock, tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low to simmer for about 90 minutes.
- Stir in chopped ham and cabbage; cook uncovered for another 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 310
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 50g
- Fiber: 15g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
