Easy Ham And Bean Soup for a Cozy Meal at Home

Ham and bean soup is not just a comforting dish; it’s a hug in a bowl. Perfect for a cozy meal at home, this easy ham and bean soup recipe offers a delightful blend of flavors and a satisfying creamy texture. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can enjoy a hearty meal that warms you up from the inside out. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftover ham, making it budget-friendly too!

Ingredients & Kitchen Tools

Ingredients

– 2 cups cooked ham, diced
– 1 cup dried white beans (like navy or great northern), rinsed and soaked overnight
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 garlic cloves, minced
– 3 carrots, sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 6 cups vegetable broth
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Kitchen Tools

– Slow cooker
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Ladle

Prep & Cook Time

– Prep Time: 15 minutes
– Cook Time: 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high in the slow cooker
– Total Time: 6 to 8 hours 15 minutes

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by dicing your cooked ham, chopping the vegetables, and mincing the garlic. Make sure the white beans have been soaked overnight and rinsed well.

2. Layer Your Ingredients: In your slow cooker, add the soaked beans, diced ham, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

3. Add the Liquid and Seasoning: Pour in the vegetable broth, ensuring all ingredients are covered. Toss in the bay leaves and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to your liking.

4. Set the Slow Cooker: Cover your slow cooker and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

5. Final Touches: Once the cooking time is up, remove the bay leaves. Give the soup a good stir and adjust seasoning as needed.

6. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your cozy meal!

Nutritional Benefits or Advantages

Ham and bean soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling and nutritious meal option. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, and they offer essential vitamins and minerals. The combination of vegetables adds vitamins A and C, further enhancing the soup’s health benefits.

Tips, Variations, or Substitutions

– Beans: If you’re short on time, you can use canned beans instead of dried. Just rinse them and add them in the last hour of cooking.
– Vegetables: Feel free to throw in any leftover veggies you have on hand, such as spinach or corn, for added flavor and nutrients.
– Spiciness: For a bit of a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

– Skipping the Soaking: Soaking beans overnight helps them cook evenly and reduces cooking time. Don’t skip this step!
– Overseasoning: Taste the soup before adding too much salt—ham can be salty on its own.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Store leftover ham and bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until warmed through.

Conclusion

Now you’ve mastered an easy ham and bean soup that’s sure to bring comfort to your table! Whether you choose to make it on the stove or in a slow cooker, this delightful recipe is perfect for family dinners or meal prep for the week. Don’t forget to share your experience or any fun variations you tried in the comments below!

FAQs

Can I use leftover ham?
Absolutely! Leftover ham adds incredible flavor to your soup.

Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.

Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking helps reduce cooking time and ensures the beans cook evenly, but you can use canned beans for convenience.

How long does it take to cook the soup in a regular pot?
If you prefer to make this ham and bean soup on the stovetop, it typically takes 1.5 to 2 hours.

Now that you’re all set to make your cozy ham and bean soup, happy cooking!