Hearty Bean and Ham Soup: A Simple Comfort Food Recipe for All Seasons

There’s nothing better than a hearty, warm bowl of soup to satisfy your hunger and comfort your soul. This Bean and Ham Soup is the ultimate cozy meal, packed with tender beans, smoky ham, and fresh vegetables. It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any season. Whether you’re preparing it for a family dinner or enjoying it on a cold evening, this soup will quickly become your favorite. Read on to make this delicious dish!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups mixed beans (white beans, kidney beans, or other types)
• 1 lb smoked ham hock or ham bone
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 celery stalks, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. If using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and soak them overnight in water. If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans—just make sure to drain and rinse them.
2. After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and fragrant.
3. Add minced garlic to the vegetables and cook for another minute, stirring occasionally.

Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth

1. Add the smoked ham hock or ham bone to the pot. The ham adds depth and a smoky flavor to the soup as it cooks.
2. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the soup to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to combine.

Step 4: Add the Beans and Seasonings

1. Add the soaked beans, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Allow the soup to simmer for 1-1.5 hours, or until the beans are soft and cooked through. Stir occasionally.

Step 5: Shred the Ham

1. Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock or bone from the soup.
2. Shred the meat from the bone and return it to the pot. Stir everything together to mix in the ham.

Step 6: Final Adjustments and Serve

1. Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
2. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color.
3. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side for a complete meal.

Helpful Tips:

• For added flavor, feel free to include smoked sausage along with the ham.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans with a potato masher to create a creamier texture.
• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for later use.

Conclusion:

This Hearty Bean and Ham Soup is a perfect meal for any occasion. Packed with hearty beans, savory ham, and tender vegetables, it’s a flavorful and satisfying dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a cozy solo meal, this soup is sure to become a regular in your recipe rotation. Try it today and experience the comfort of homemade soup at its finest!