homemade ham bean soup recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
homemade ham bean soup recipe
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The Best homemade ham bean soup recipe

I’ve always been a fan of hearty, comforting soups that warm the soul and fill the belly. One of my go-to recipes is homemade ham bean soup, a classic dish that’s been passed down through generations. This soup has a special place in my heart, not just because it’s easy to make and packed with nutrients, but also because it’s a staple at family gatherings and potlucks. There’s something about the combination of tender beans, savory ham, and rich broth that just makes everyone feel at home.

I remember growing up, my grandmother would make this soup for us whenever we were feeling under the weather or just needed a pick-me-up. She’d simmer the beans and ham all day in a big pot, filling the house with the most incredible aroma. It was always a treat to come home to that delicious smell. As I’ve grown older, I’ve continued to perfect this recipe and make it my own.

I love adding in some diced veggies like carrots and celery for added flavor and texture. And let me tell you, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of homemade ham bean soup on a chilly fall or winter day. One of the best things about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course or use it as a side dish for whatever occasion you’re celebrating.

It’s also incredibly easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just need a quick lunch option, this soup is always a good idea. But what really sets this recipe apart is the health benefits it provides. Beans are an excellent source of protein, fiber, and vitamins, making them a great choice for those looking to eat more plant-based meals.

And when paired with lean ham and vegetables, this soup becomes a nutritional powerhouse. So if you’re looking for a recipe that’s both delicious and nutritious, look no further than homemade ham bean soup. It’s a classic for a reason!

Homemade Ham Bean Soup Recipe

Homemade Ham Bean Soup Recipe

4.9 from 807 votes

A hearty and comforting homemade ham bean soup recipe, perfect for a cold day. This soup is packed with flavor from the ham, beans, and vegetables.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time240 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time255 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb dried navy beans
1 lb ham bone or ham hock
2 quarts water
2 cups diced ham
2 medium onions, chopped
2 medium carrots, chopped
2 medium celery stalks, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
2 cloves garlic, minced

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried navy beans and pick out any debris or small stones.
2Place the beans in a large pot and cover with water.
3Let them soak overnight.
4This step is crucial as it helps to reduce the cooking time and makes the beans more digestible.
5After soaking, drain and rinse the beans again.
6Add the beans to the pot along with the ham bone or ham hock and 2 quarts of water.
7Bring the water to a boil over high heat.
8Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
9Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
10You will know the beans are tender when you can easily mash them with a spoon.
11While the beans are cooking, chop the onions, carrots, and celery into small pieces.
12Set them aside until needed.
13Mince the garlic cloves and set them aside as well.
14This step should be done in advance to ensure that all the vegetables are ready to be added to the soup at the appropriate time.
15Once the beans are tender, remove the ham bone or ham hock from the pot and set it aside to cool.
16Strain the beans, reserving the cooking liquid.
17This liquid is full of flavor and will be used to make the soup.
18Add the diced ham, onions, carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot with the reserved cooking liquid.
19Bring the liquid to a boil over medium heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
20Stir occasionally to ensure that the vegetables are cooked evenly and do not stick to the bottom of the pot.
21While the vegetables are cooking, remove the meat from the ham bone or ham hock and chop it into small pieces.
22Add the chopped ham to the pot with the vegetables.
23Stir well to combine.
24Let the soup simmer for an additional 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
25Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper if needed.
26This step is important to ensure that the soup has the right level of seasoning.
27Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and serve hot.
28Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
29This soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
30Enjoy your homemade ham bean soup recipe.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Strainer
Wooden spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 15g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smokier flavor, you can use smoked ham hocks. You can also add other vegetables like potatoes or spinach to make the soup more hearty.

Homemade ham bean soup is always a good idea for any occasion. Its a comforting and nutritious meal that brings warmth and satisfaction to any gathering. This soup is perfect for family dinners, holiday meals, or even a cozy night in.

You can easily double the recipe to feed a large crowd or freeze portions for later. Just make sure to store it properly in the refrigerator or freezer. Reheating is simple; just warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

For an extra touch, you can garnish with chopped parsley or a dollop of sour cream before serving. It always feels good to know that you have a delicious and comforting meal ready to go. The versatility of this soup makes it a staple in my kitchen, and I know it will become one in yours as well.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Bean Soup

Q: What type of beans should I use for this recipe?

A: You can use either navy beans or pinto beans for this recipe. Navy beans have a slightly sweeter flavor, while pinto beans have a slightly earthier taste.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

A: Yes, you can definitely make this recipe in a slow cooker! Simply brown the ham and cook the vegetables before adding them to the slow cooker with the remaining ingredients.

Q: How long does it take to cook the beans?

A: The cooking time will depend on whether you’re using dried or canned beans. If using dried beans, plan on cooking them for at least 8-10 hours in the slow cooker or 1-2 hours on the stovetop.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to customize this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Some ideas include adding diced tomatoes for extra flavor, using different types of cheese for added richness, or even adding some heat with red pepper flakes.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: This recipe can be adapted to be vegetarian-friendly by substituting the ham with additional beans or using vegetarian broth instead of traditional chicken broth.

Q: Can I store leftovers in the fridge or freezer?

A: Yes, leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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