Classic, hearty, and budget-friendly—Ham and Bean Soup 🍲🐖
Perfect for using leftover ham or a ham bone, and packed with flavor.
Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients
- 1–2 cups dried beans (navy, great northern, or cannellini), soaked overnight or 3–4 cups canned beans, drained
- 1–2 cups diced ham (or ham bone for extra flavor)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2–3 carrots, diced
- 2–3 celery stalks, diced
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (add water if needed)
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp thyme (optional)
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce
Instructions
- Prepare beans
- If using dried beans, rinse and soak overnight, then drain.
- Sauté vegetables
- In a large pot, sauté onion, carrot, celery, and garlic until softened.
- Add ham & liquid
- Stir in ham or ham bone, beans, broth, and seasonings.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer.
- Simmer
- For dried beans: 1.5–2 hours, until beans are tender.
- For canned beans: 30–40 minutes, until flavors meld.
- Finish & serve
- Remove bay leaf and ham bone (if used).
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or a splash of vinegar for brightness.
Tips & Variations
- 🍲 Blend a portion of the soup for a creamier texture
- 🥔 Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness
- 🌿 Add parsley or thyme at the end for freshness
- ❄️ Freezes well for 2–3 months
If you want, I can give a crock pot / slow cooker version so it cooks all day while you’re busy.
Do you want me to provide that version?
