Beans And Ham Soup Recipe

There’s something incredibly comforting about a bowl of beans and ham soup, especially when the weather turns chilly or you’re just in need of a hearty meal to fill you up. This dish combines simple ingredients, but the depth of flavor it provides is nothing short of amazing. Beans, tender ham, and a few vegetables come together in a savory, slightly smoky broth that will warm you from the inside out. Whether you’ve been cooking for years or are just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe is approachable and rewarding.

Beans and ham soup has been a family favorite for generations, likely because it’s inexpensive, easy to make, and very satisfying. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that actually tastes better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. This recipe gives you the perfect balance of richness and freshness, with plenty of customization options to make it your own.

Now, let’s dive into the details of how to make this perfect, soul-satisfying soup.

Beans And Ham Soup Recipe

Ingredients Needed

To make a delicious pot of beans and ham soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 cups dried beans (pinto, navy, or white beans are commonly used)
• 1 ham bone or 2 cups of ham (cut into cubes)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2-3 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp thyme (or 1 sprig fresh thyme)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (for that subtle smoky flavor)
• 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 tbsp vinegar (to balance the richness of the ham and beans)
• 1-2 cups kale or spinach (optional, but adds a great green boost)

Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare The Beans

   • If you’re using dried beans, start by rinsing them thoroughly and checking for any debris. Soaking them overnight is ideal, but if you’re pressed for time, a quick soak method works too: cover beans with water in a large pot, bring to a boil, and let them sit for an hour before draining.

2. Sauté Vegetables

   • Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften. This helps bring out their natural sweetness.

3. Add Garlic And Spices

   • Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and thyme to the vegetables. Stir for about a minute until fragrant.

4. Combine Ham And Broth

   • Add the ham (whether bone or cubed) to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth, and then add the bay leaf. Bring everything to a simmer.

5. Cook The Beans

   • Add the soaked beans into the pot. If you didn’t soak your beans, just add them in as they are. Stir everything together and ensure the beans are fully submerged in the broth.

6. Simmer

   • Let the soup simmer, partially covered, for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally, and check the liquid levels, adding more broth or water as necessary.

7. Final Touches

   • Once the beans are cooked, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper. Add the vinegar to help balance the flavors. If using greens, toss them in at the end and let them wilt before serving.

8. Serve And Enjoy!

   • Ladle the soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for that extra comfort factor.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this recipe plays a unique role in creating the perfect bowl of beans and ham soup:

• Dried Beans: Beans are the star of the show. They absorb all the savory flavors of the ham, spices, and broth, becoming tender and creamy as they cook. Pinto or white beans are popular choices because they hold their shape well and have a mild flavor.
• Ham: Whether you’re using leftover ham, a ham bone, or diced ham, the richness and slight smokiness of the meat infuse the soup. The ham bone, in particular, adds an extra layer of flavor, with the marrow enriching the broth as it simmers.
• Carrots, Celery, and Onion: These classic aromatics (known as a mirepoix in French cooking) form the flavor base of the soup. They provide sweetness and earthiness that perfectly balance the richness of the ham.
• Thyme and Bay Leaf: These herbs add depth without overwhelming the dish. Thyme gives a slightly minty, earthy note, while the bay leaf contributes a subtle, fragrant aroma that elevates the overall experience.
• Smoked Paprika: This spice is key for adding that smoky dimension to the soup without needing to use too much actual smoked meat. It complements the ham and gives the broth a deeper flavor profile.
• Vinegar: A dash of vinegar at the end adds brightness and helps cut through the richness of the soup, making it more well-rounded and satisfying.

Expert Tips

• Slow Cooker Option: If you’re short on time, this soup can easily be adapted for a slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients (except for the greens) into the slow cooker and set it on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Add greens and vinegar just before serving.
• Beans and Ham Ratio: Feel free to adjust the amount of beans and ham according to your personal preference. If you prefer a more meat-forward soup, increase the ham; if you want a thicker, bean-heavy soup, use more beans.
• Pre-Soaking Beans: Soaking beans not only reduces cooking time but also helps reduce any potential stomach discomfort that some people experience from beans. If you’re in a rush, consider using canned beans instead (just be sure to rinse them well).
• Adjusting Seasoning: As with any soup, the seasoning is key. Taste as you go and add salt, pepper, or additional spices as needed. Depending on the saltiness of your ham or broth, you may not need to add much salt at all.

Recipe Variations

While this classic beans and ham soup recipe is tried and true, it’s easy to make adjustments based on your preferences or dietary needs.

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth. Add extra vegetables like potatoes, parsnips, or sweet potatoes for a satisfying alternative. You can even throw in some smoked tofu or tempeh to mimic the savory depth of the ham.
• Add Potatoes: For a heartier soup, add diced potatoes. The potatoes will soak up the broth and give the soup a creamy texture once they break down.
• Spicy Kick: If you enjoy a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or some red pepper flakes when sautéing the vegetables. The heat will give the soup an exciting contrast to the smoky ham.
• Herb Variations: If you want to change up the herbs, try adding rosemary or sage. Both herbs pair wonderfully with beans and ham, giving the soup a different aromatic profile.
• Greens: For added nutrition and flavor, throw in a handful of greens like kale, spinach, or collard greens. These add a burst of color and a slight bitterness that cuts through the rich soup.

Final Words

Beans and ham soup is the ultimate comfort food-a simple, nutritious, and satisfying meal that’s perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or meal prepping. It’s an easy-to-make dish that brings people together, filling the house with a mouthwatering aroma that promises a cozy, heartwarming meal. Plus, it’s one of those recipes that gets better with time, so leftovers are always a bonus!