Ham and Bean Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe

Ham and Bean Soup: the ultimate comfort food, ready to warm you from the inside out! Is there anything quite as satisfying as a hearty bowl of this classic soup on a chilly evening? I think not! This isn’t just any soup; it’s a culinary hug, a taste of home, and a guaranteed crowd-pleaser all rolled into one delicious package.

Ham and bean soup boasts a rich history, deeply rooted in resourcefulness and practicality. Originating as a way to utilize leftover ham bones and dried beans, it’s a testament to making the most of simple ingredients. For generations, families have relied on this nourishing soup to provide sustenance and warmth, especially during leaner times. It’s a dish that speaks of tradition and family gatherings, often passed down through generations with each cook adding their own special touch.

But what makes ham and bean soup so universally loved? It’s a symphony of flavors and textures! The smoky, savory ham perfectly complements the creamy, earthy beans, creating a taste that’s both comforting and complex. The slow simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich, deeply satisfying broth. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient! This is a fantastic make-ahead meal that only gets better with time. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty lunch, this soup is always a winning choice. So, grab your favorite beans and that leftover ham bone, and let’s get cooking!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 pound)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon dried sage
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 cup diced cooked ham (about 6 ounces)
• Salt to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparing the Beans:

Before we even think about chopping veggies, let’s get those beans ready. Dried beans need a little love and attention to soften up and cook evenly. I prefer the overnight soak method, but I’ll also give you a quick soak option if you’re short on time.

1. Overnight Soak (Recommended): Place the rinsed Great Northern beans in a large bowl or pot. Cover them with at least 8 cups of cold water – make sure the water level is well above the beans, as they’ll absorb a lot of it. Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight, in the refrigerator. This helps to rehydrate the beans and reduces cooking time.
2. Quick Soak (Alternative): If you’re in a hurry, place the rinsed beans in a large pot and cover them with at least 8 cups of cold water. Bring the water to a boil, then boil for 2 minutes. Remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the beans soak for 1 hour.
3. Drain and Rinse: After soaking (either method), drain the beans in a colander and rinse them thoroughly with cold water. This helps to remove any impurities and starches that were released during soaking.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

Now for the fun part – building flavor! Sautéing the vegetables is key to creating a rich and savory base for our soup. Don’t rush this step; let the vegetables soften and release their delicious aromas.

1. Heat the Oil: In a large, heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. The pot should be large enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t let them brown too much.
3. Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, stirring constantly, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Simmering the Soup:

This is where the magic happens! We’ll combine the sautéed vegetables with the beans, broth, and ham hock, and let everything simmer together until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded beautifully. Patience is key here – the longer it simmers, the better it tastes!

1. Add the Broth and Beans: Pour the chicken broth into the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Add the drained and rinsed Great Northern beans.
2. Add the Ham Hock and Seasonings: Add the smoked ham hock, dried thyme, dried sage, black pepper, and bay leaf to the pot.
3. Bring to a Boil, Then Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for at least 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The longer it simmers, the richer the flavor will be.
4. Check for Doneness: After 2 hours, check the beans for doneness. They should be easily pierced with a fork and have a creamy texture. If they’re still firm, continue to simmer for another 30-60 minutes, or until they’re tender.

Finishing the Soup:

Almost there! Now we’ll remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and add it back to the soup. We’ll also add the diced ham and adjust the seasoning to taste.

1. Remove the Ham Hock: Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot using tongs or a slotted spoon. Place it on a cutting board to cool slightly.
2. Shred the Ham: Once the ham hock is cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bone using two forks. Discard the skin, bone, and any excess fat.
3. Return the Ham to the Soup: Add the shredded ham back to the pot with the soup.
4. Add the Diced Ham: Add the diced cooked ham to the pot. This adds another layer of ham flavor and texture.
5. Season to Taste: Taste the soup and add salt as needed. Remember that the ham hock and broth may already be salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more to taste. You can also add more black pepper if desired.
6. Remove the Bay Leaf: Before serving, remove the bay leaf from the soup.

Serving:

Finally, the moment we’ve been waiting for! Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or crackers for dipping.

1. Ladle and Garnish: Ladle the hot ham and bean soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with Parsley: Sprinkle each bowl with fresh chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
3. Serve: Serve immediately with crusty bread, crackers, or a side salad.

Tips and Variations:

• Smoked Meats: Feel free to experiment with different types of smoked meats. Smoked turkey legs or bacon can be used in place of the ham hock for a different flavor profile.
• Vegetables: Add other vegetables to the soup, such as diced potatoes, corn, or green beans.
• Spices: Adjust the spices to your liking. Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a teaspoon of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Thickening: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher or immersion blender before serving. Be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some texture.
• Slow Cooker: This recipe can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients (except the diced ham and parsley) in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the diced ham during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
• Storage: Leftover ham and bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Enjoy!

I hope you enjoy this hearty and flavorful ham and bean soup as much as I do! It’s the perfect comfort food for a chilly day, and it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Conclusion:

So there you have it! This Ham and Bean Soup recipe isn’t just another soup; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, a hearty meal that sticks to your ribs, and a delicious way to use up leftover holiday ham. I truly believe it’s a must-try for anyone looking for comfort food that’s also surprisingly easy to make. The combination of smoky ham, tender beans, and flavorful broth is simply irresistible, and the aroma that fills your kitchen while it simmers is pure bliss.

What makes this soup so special, in my opinion, is its versatility. It’s fantastic as a standalone meal, especially on a chilly evening, but it also pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Think crusty bread for dipping into that rich broth, a simple green salad to add some freshness, or even grilled cheese sandwiches for a truly comforting and satisfying lunch. For a lighter option, you could serve it with a dollop of Greek yogurt or a sprinkle of fresh parsley.

But the fun doesn’t stop there! Feel free to experiment with variations to make this soup your own. If you’re a fan of spice, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. For a richer flavor, try using smoked ham hocks instead of diced ham. You can also swap out the Great Northern beans for other types of beans, such as navy beans, cannellini beans, or even kidney beans, depending on your preference. Adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or spinach can also boost the nutritional value and flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions and Variations:

• Classic Comfort: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping.
• Light and Fresh: Top with a dollop of Greek yogurt and fresh parsley.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
• Smoked Flavor: Use smoked ham hocks instead of diced ham.
• Bean Variety: Experiment with different types of beans, such as navy beans or cannellini beans.
• Veggie Boost: Add chopped carrots, celery, or spinach for added nutrients and flavor.

I’ve poured my heart into perfecting this recipe, and I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. It’s a simple, satisfying, and incredibly flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal, this Ham and Bean Soup is sure to hit the spot.

So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get cooking! I’m so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the deliciousness for yourself. And most importantly, I’d love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What did you serve it with? What did your family think? Please, share your thoughts and photos in the comments below. Your feedback is invaluable, and it helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking, and enjoy every spoonful!

Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with your friends and family who might enjoy a hearty and comforting bowl of Ham and Bean Soup. Let’s spread the warmth and deliciousness together!

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