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. With its rich flavors and hearty ingredients, this soup is great for cozy family dinners or meal prep for the week ahead.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple to Prepare: This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe requires minimal effort, making it perfect for busy days.
• Flavorful Comfort Food: The combination of beans, ham, and spices creates a warm and satisfying dish.
• Versatile Meal Option: Serve it as a main course or pair it with bread for a complete meal.
• Perfect for Leftovers: A great way to utilize leftover ham while reducing food waste.
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins from the vegetables, this soup is healthy too.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, gather your essential tools. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: Ideal for slow cooking soups; it retains heat well and provides even cooking.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of vegetables, saving time in preparation.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

• 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans
• 3 Tablespoons Oil
• 1 White Onion, (chopped)
• 4 Carrots, (chopped)
• 2 Celery Stalks, (sliced)
• 5 Garlic Cloves, (finely chopped)

Liquid Ingredients

• 64 ounces Chicken Stock
• 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes

Seasonings

• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
• Fresh Cracked Pepper

Final Touches

• 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage
• 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
• Salt – to taste (if needed)

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse dried beans under cold water.
2. Cover beans with several inches of water in a bowl.
3. Soak beans overnight; rinse again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes while stirring.
3. Stir in finely chopped garlic; sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Cook the Soup Base

1. Add soaked beans to the pot along with chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and fresh cracked pepper.
2. Bring mixture to a boil then reduce heat to a simmer.
3. Cover pot slightly ajar; cook for about 90 minutes. Check beans’ consistency; if still firm, cook for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage

1. Remove lid from the pot and stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
2. Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until cabbage is tender.
3. Adjust salt to taste if necessary; discard bay leaf before serving.

This hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe not only utilizes your leftover ham but also provides warmth on chilly days while being easy to prepare! Enjoy each comforting bowl!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving your homemade Ham and Bean Soup can elevate the meal experience. Here are some delightful suggestions to enjoy this comforting dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Sourdough Bread – A tangy sourdough loaf pairs beautifully, perfect for dipping.
• Garlic Bread – Toasted garlic bread adds flavor and crunch, enhancing each bite.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Parsley – Sprinkling fresh parsley on top adds a pop of color and freshness.
• Thyme Leaves – Fresh thyme can bring an aromatic touch that complements the soup wonderfully.

Accompanied by a Salad

• Caesar Salad – A classic Caesar salad balances the heartiness of the soup with crisp greens and dressing.
• Coleslaw – A creamy coleslaw provides a crunchy contrast to the warm soup.

Served in Bread Bowls

• Bread Bowls – Hollowed-out bread bowls make for a fun and edible serving option that enhances presentation.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

To achieve the best flavor and texture in your Ham and Bean Soup, consider these helpful tips.

• Soak Beans Overnight – Soaking beans ensures they cook evenly and reduces cooking time, resulting in tender beans.
• Use Quality Stock – A good-quality chicken stock enhances the soup’s overall taste. Homemade is always a great option!
• Balance Seasoning – Taste before adding salt. The ham may already provide enough saltiness to flavor your soup.
• Add Veggies Early – Cooking vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery at the beginning deepens their flavors throughout the dish.
• Simmer Gently – Allowing the soup to simmer slowly helps meld all ingredients together for a richer flavor.
• Serve Hot – This soup is best enjoyed hot, so ensure it’s heated through before serving.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Pairing side dishes with your Ham and Bean Soup can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Cornbread – Sweet cornbread offers a delightful contrast to the savory soup.
2. Biscuits – Fluffy biscuits are perfect for sopping up every last drop of delicious broth.
3. Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add nutrition and balance the richness of the soup.
4. Potato Salad – A chilled potato salad can provide a refreshing counterpoint to the warm soup.
5. Fried Green Tomatoes – These crispy treats add texture and flavor that complement your meal nicely.
6. Fruit Salad – A light fruit salad can cleanse your palate between bites, adding sweetness to your dinner experience.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Ham and Bean Soup can be simple, but there are some common pitfalls. Here are a few mistakes to watch out for:

• Skipping the Soaking: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to tough beans. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly and soften properly.
• Ignoring Consistency Checks: Failing to check the beans’ consistency during cooking may result in overcooked or undercooked beans. Taste and adjust cooking time as needed.
• Over-seasoning Too Early: Adding salt too soon can make it hard for beans to soften. Wait until the end to adjust seasoning based on the ham’s saltiness.
• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Poor-quality stock or canned tomatoes can affect flavor significantly. Always choose fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best results.
• Not Storing Properly: Improper storage can spoil your soup quickly. Make sure to follow storage guidelines for freshness and safety.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Best consumed within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), transfer soup to an oven-safe dish, cover, and heat for about 30 minutes.
• Microwave: Place soup in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through, stirring between intervals.
• Stovetop: Pour soup into a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe special?

This recipe is special because it transforms leftover ham into a hearty meal that’s perfect for cold days. It combines nutritious ingredients with rich flavors.

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! While navy beans are traditional, you can substitute with great northern or pinto beans for a different taste or texture.

How can I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes. Spices like cumin or paprika can also enhance flavor.

Is this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe healthy?

Absolutely! It’s packed with protein and fiber from the beans and ham, making it both nutritious and filling.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes! You can omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian option.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only a fantastic way to use leftovers but also offers versatility in flavors and ingredients. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize it further, it’s a comforting meal that brings warmth on chilly days. Don’t hesitate to experiment with your favorite vegetables or spices—this soup will surely become a family favorite!