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–+ servings
Homemade Ham and Bean Soup in a bowl with fresh herbs

Ham and Bean Soup

A comforting and hearty ham and bean soup that brings warmth and family together, filled with flavors and memories.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 15 minutes
Course Main Course, Soup
Cuisine American, Comfort Food
Servings 6 servings
Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients
  

Base Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter Using fresh butter enhances the flavor.
  • 1 large yellow onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 stalks celery, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

Meat Ingredients

  • 1 meaty ham bone
  • 2-3 cups diced leftover ham Use instead of ham hocks if preferred.

Beans and Broth

  • 1 pound dried great northern beans, rinsed and picked over Alternatively, use canned beans.
  • 8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

Seasoning

  • 2 leaves bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme Or use 3-4 fresh sprigs.
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • 1-2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar or fresh lemon juice Optional, but recommended for brightness.

Garnish

  • Fresh parsley, chopped For garnish.

Instructions
 

Preparation

  • The night before, soak the dried beans in a large bowl with at least 3 inches of cold water.
  • When ready to cook, drain and rinse the beans.

Sauté the Aromatics

  • In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat the oil over medium heat.
  • Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 7-8 minutes.
  • Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.

Simmer the Soup

  • Add the drained beans, ham bone or hocks, broth, bay leaves, and thyme to the pot.
  • Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer for 1 ½ to 2 hours, or until beans are tender.
  • Stir occasionally.

Prepare the Ham

  • Remove the ham bone or hocks from the pot and cool slightly.
  • Pick off the meat and shred or chop it into bite-sized pieces.
  • If using canned beans, add them and the diced ham to the pot now, and simmer for 20 more minutes.

Thicken the Soup

  • Remove 1 ½ to 2 cups of the bean-and-vegetable mixture and mash it into a rough paste.
  • Stir this back into the pot to thicken the broth and add the ham meat.

Final Seasoning

  • Remove the bay leaves and thyme sprigs.
  • Season to taste with black pepper and salt if needed.
  • Stir in 1-2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice.

Serve

  • Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
  • Serve immediately with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

Notes

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or freeze in portions for longer storage. Consider adding seasonal vegetables for variations.

Nutrition

Serving: 1gCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 30gProtein: 20gFat: 10gSaturated Fat: 3gSodium: 700mgFiber: 10gSugar: 3g
Keyword Comfort Food, Family Recipe, Ham and Bean Soup, hearty soup, Homemade Soup
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