Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe You’ll Love

There’s something truly magical about a hearty bowl of White Bean and Ham Soup. Picture this: tender white beans swimming in a savory broth, infused with the robust flavor of ham, and sprinkled with fresh herbs that dance on your taste buds. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace like your grandma’s favorite sweater. This dish is not just food; it’s an invitation to gather around the table and share stories while savoring every spoonful.

I remember the first time I tried making this soup. It was a chilly evening, and I had just returned from a long day at work. As the flavors melded together in my pot, I felt like a culinary wizard casting spells with my wooden spoon. Whether it’s a cozy family dinner or a gathering with friends, this soup steals the show, promising comfort and joy in every bite.

Ingredients for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• White Beans: Canned or dried white beans work well; if using dried, soak them overnight for better texture.
• Ham Hock: A smoked ham hock adds depth to the soup; feel free to use leftover ham for convenience.
• Carrots: Fresh carrots give sweetness and color; chop them into small pieces for even cooking.
• Celery: Use fresh celery stalks for crunch and aromatic flavor; dice them finely to enhance the overall taste.
• Onion: A yellow onion provides sweetness when sautéed; make sure to chop it finely for even distribution.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves are essential for that aromatic punch; mince them right before adding for maximum flavor.
• Chicken Broth: High-quality low-sodium chicken broth enhances the soup’s richness without overpowering other flavors.

For seasoning:

• Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs add earthy notes; if using dried, reduce the amount since it’s more concentrated.
• Bay Leaves: One or two bay leaves infuse subtle depth during cooking; don’t forget to remove them before serving!

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Start with prepping your ingredients. Gather all your vegetables, rinse your beans if using canned ones, and chop everything into bite-sized pieces. This will save you time during cooking.

Sauté the aromatics by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes should do it!

Introduce minced garlic next. Stir it in until it becomes fragrant—around one minute is perfect. Keep an eye on it because burnt garlic is like that one friend who overstays their welcome.

Add the ham hock to the pot along with drained beans. Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged—this is where the magic happens! Bring it all to a gentle boil while stirring occasionally.

Season with thyme leaves and bay leaves now. Reduce heat to low once boiling; let it simmer gently for about an hour or until flavors meld beautifully.

Check your ham hock after about thirty minutes of simmering: you want it tender enough so that pulling off the meat is as easy as peeling a banana.

Once done simmering, remove that ham hock like it’s an unwanted party guest! Shred any meat from the bone and return it back into your soup pot.

Taste-test your masterpiece! Adjust seasoning with salt or pepper as needed—don’t be shy here! You want it bursting with flavor!

Serve hot sprinkled with fresh herbs for garnish—it adds not just flavor but also makes your soup look extra fancy!

Now grab your favorite bowl (or five) and dig into this heartwarming bowl of White Bean and Ham Soup! Enjoy every comforting spoonful as laughter fills the room—because food shared is happiness multiplied!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing your onions and garlic until they’re fragrant and golden. Next, add the ham and let it brown slightly. Toss in the beans, broth, and seasonings, allowing everything to simmer so the flavors meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to customize this white bean and ham soup recipe by swapping out the ham for turkey or adding veggies like spinach or carrots. You can also experiment with spices such as thyme or rosemary for extra flair.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for about three days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.

Cooking this white bean and ham soup recipe reminds me of cozy dinners with my family during winter nights. Everyone would gather around the table, slurping happily while sharing stories that warmed our hearts as much as the soup warmed our bellies.

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

To create a delicious White Bean and Ham Soup, gather the following ingredients: dried white beans, diced ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and pepper. You can also add optional ingredients like spinach or kale for extra nutrients. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika for flavor. Ensure you have fresh herbs on hand to enhance the soup’s aroma and taste.

How long does it take to cook White Bean and Ham Soup?

Cooking White Bean and Ham Soup typically takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. First, soak the dried beans overnight to reduce cooking time. Once ready to cook, simmer the soup on low heat until the beans are tender and creamy. If you’re using canned beans, the cooking time can be reduced to around 30 minutes. This makes it a convenient recipe for any day of the week.

Can I freeze White Bean and Ham Soup?

Yes, you can freeze White Bean and Ham Soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to airtight containers or freezer bags. The soup can last up to three months in the freezer without losing its flavor or texture. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through.

What can I serve with White Bean and Ham Soup?

White Bean and Ham Soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a fresh side salad for a complete meal. You might also consider serving it with cornbread or cheese toast for added comfort. For those looking for lighter options, steamed vegetables make an excellent side dish. The combination enhances your dining experience while balancing flavors.

Conclusion for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe:

In summary, this White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe is a fulfilling option that brings warmth to any table. With simple ingredients and straightforward preparation steps, you can create a hearty dish that everyone will love. Remember to adjust seasoning as needed based on your taste preferences. Enjoy this comforting soup as a main course or alongside your favorite sides for a delightful meal experience.

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White Bean and Ham Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 6 people 1x

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Description

White Bean and Ham Soup is a heartwarming dish perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make recipe features creamy white beans simmered with rich ham in a savory broth, creating a delightful aroma that fills your home. With minimal prep time and versatile ingredients, this soup invites you to gather around the table and savor every spoonful. Enjoy it as a comforting main course or pair it with crusty bread for an extra treat.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried white beans (or 2 cans, drained)
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 2 cups diced leftover ham)
• 1 cup chopped carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. If using dried beans, soak them overnight. Drain and rinse if using canned.
2. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about five minutes).
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for one more minute.
4. Stir in the ham hock and drained beans; pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged.
5. Add thyme and bay leaves, bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat to low and simmer for about one hour.
6. Check the ham hock after thirty minutes; shred meat into the soup once tender.
7. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as desired; serve hot garnished with fresh herbs.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 60 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 580mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 22g
• Cholesterol: 45mg