Growing up, there was nothing quite as comforting as my mom’s homemade Ham And Bean Soup simmering on the stove on a chilly winter afternoon. The aroma of sautéed vegetables, tender ham, and fragrant herbs would fill the entire house, signaling that it was time to gather around the table for a nourishing and satisfying meal. To this day, a steaming bowl of her Ham And Bean Soup instantly transports me back to those cozy childhood memories.

There’s just something so inherently special about this classic dish. Maybe it’s the way the savory ham mingles with the creamy navy beans, or the way the aromatic veggies and herbs come together to create a flavor that’s truly greater than the sum of its parts. Whatever it is, this Ham And Bean Soup recipe has become a staple in my own kitchen, and I’m certain it will become a go-to for you as well.

Why This Ham And Bean Soup Recipe Will Become Your Go-To

The Secret Behind Perfect Ham And Bean Soup

The secret to making truly exceptional Ham And Bean Soup lies in the careful balance of flavors and textures. By sautéing the aromatic vegetables first, you build a rich, complex base that infuses the entire dish. The addition of diced ham provides a salty, savory counterpoint, while the tender navy beans lend a creamy, comforting presence. And let’s not forget the herbs – the earthy thyme and fragrant bay leaf work their magic to tie all the flavors together seamlessly.

But the real key is in the technique. Simmering the soup low and slow allows the flavors to meld and the beans to become perfectly tender. And by adjusting the seasoning throughout the cooking process, you can achieve that elusive sweet spot of seasoning that will have your family and friends raving.

Essential Ingredients You’ll Need

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil: This is the foundation that allows us to sauté the vegetables to perfection, creating a flavorful base for the soup.
  • 1 onion, diced: Onions are the backbone of any great soup, adding depth and sweetness as they caramelize.
  • 2 carrots, peeled and diced: Carrots contribute a natural sweetness and vibrant color to the soup.
  • 2 celery stalks, diced: Celery brings a signature savory, slightly bitter note that balances the other flavors.
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced: Garlic is a must-have, infusing the soup with its pungent aroma and flavor.
  • 1 pound diced ham: The star of the show! Diced ham lends a wonderfully salty, smoky element that complements the beans perfectly.
  • 2 cans (15 oz each) navy beans, drained and rinsed: Navy beans are creamy and tender, making them an ideal choice for this hearty soup.
  • 4 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth: Broth provides the liquid base and allows the flavors to meld together.
  • 1 bay leaf: The bay leaf imparts a subtle, earthy flavor that simmers throughout the soup.
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme: Thyme adds a warm, herbaceous note that ties the entire dish together.
  • Salt and black pepper to taste: Seasoning is key to balancing the flavors.
  • Chopped fresh parsley for garnish: A final flourish of freshness and color.

Step-by-Step Ham And Bean Soup Instructions

Preparing Your Ham And Bean Soup

With a prep time of just 15 minutes and a cook time of 20 minutes, this Ham And Bean Soup recipe comes together in a total of 35 minutes. All you’ll need is a large pot or Dutch oven, a cutting board, and a sharp knife.

1- Start by heating the olive oil in your pot over medium heat. Once the oil is shimmering, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they’re softened and starting to caramelize.
2- Next, add the minced garlic to the pot and continue cooking for 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let the garlic burn, as that can impart a bitter taste.
3- Now it’s time to add the diced ham to the pot. Cook the ham for 3-4 minutes, allowing the edges to get a nice sear and the flavors to develop.
4- Drain and rinse the navy beans, then add them to the pot along with the chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer and let it cook for 15-20 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.
5- Carefully remove the bay leaf, then season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a final stir to incorporate the seasoning.
6- Ladle the hot Ham And Bean Soup into bowls and garnish each serving with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Pro Tips for Success

  1. Don’t skip the initial sautéing of the vegetables – this step is crucial for building a rich, complex base for the soup.
  2. Be patient and let the soup simmer low and slow. This allows the flavors to meld and the beans to become perfectly tender.
  3. Taste and adjust the seasoning throughout the cooking process. The right balance of salt, pepper, and herbs is key to making this soup truly shine.
  4. For an extra creamy texture, you can use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to gently mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.

Serving and Storing Your Ham And Bean Soup

Perfect Pairings for Ham And Bean Soup

This hearty Ham And Bean Soup is the perfect centerpiece for a cozy winter meal, serving 6 generous portions. For a complete and satisfying feast, consider serving it alongside a fresh green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette. Crusty bread or warm cornbread also make excellent accompaniments, perfect for sopping up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

As for beverages, a bold red wine or a crisp, hoppy craft beer would be delightful pairings. For a lighter option, a refreshing glass of iced tea or lemonade would also complement the flavors beautifully.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

Leftover Ham And Bean Soup will keep well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Simply store it in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to enjoy.

For longer-term storage, this soup also freezes exceptionally well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container or resealable bag. It will keep in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until hot throughout.

If you’re planning ahead, you can even make this soup in advance. Prepare the entire recipe up to 4 days before you plan to serve it, then store it in the refrigerator. When ready to enjoy, simply reheat the soup on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

Variations and Dietary Adaptations for Ham And Bean Soup

Creative Ham And Bean Soup Variations

While this classic Ham And Bean Soup is utterly delicious as written, there are plenty of ways to put your own spin on it:

  • Swap out the ham for smoked turkey or andouille sausage for a different flavor profile.
  • Add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
  • Stir in some chopped kale or spinach towards the end for a nutritional boost.
  • Experiment with different bean varieties, like kidney or pinto beans, for a change of pace.
  • Sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a touch of heat.

Making Ham And Bean Soup Diet-Friendly

For those following a gluten-free diet, this Ham And Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free. Just be sure to use a gluten-free broth.

To make it vegan or vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken. You can also add extra vegetables, like mushrooms or zucchini, to make it more substantial.

For a lower-carb version, reduce the amount of navy beans and consider adding more protein-rich ingredients, like extra ham or diced chicken.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of bean in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! While navy beans are traditional, you can certainly experiment with other bean varieties like kidney, pinto, or even chickpeas. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure the beans become tender.

Q: How long does it take to make this Ham And Bean Soup?
A: This recipe has a total time of 35 minutes, with 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes of cooking. The low-and-slow simmering is key to developing the flavors.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?
A: Yes, this Ham And Bean Soup actually gets better the longer the flavors have a chance to meld. You can make it up to 4 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just be sure to reheat it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Q: How many servings does this recipe make?
A: This Ham And Bean Soup recipe yields 6 generous servings, making it perfect for a family meal or to have plenty of leftovers.

Q: What should I do if the soup is too thick or too thin?
A: If the soup is too thick, simply add a bit more broth to thin it out to your desired consistency. If it’s too thin, let it simmer a bit longer to allow some of the liquid to evaporate and the flavors to concentrate.

Conclusion

This Ham And Bean Soup is a true winter staple that will quickly become a go-to in your household. With its blend of savory, comforting flavors and incredibly simple preparation, it’s the perfect dish to warm you up on a chilly day. Plus, the ability to make it ahead of time and enjoy the leftovers makes it an incredibly practical and versatile recipe.

I’m certain that once you’ve tried this Ham And Bean Soup, it will find a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. So what are you waiting for? Grab your pot and get cooking – your taste buds (and your family) will thank you!