Whether you’re seeking a cozy meal on a chilly day or simply craving a comforting dish, this Ham and Bean Soup is sure to hit the spot. With its simple ingredients and straightforward preparation, it’s the perfect soup to simmer on the stove while you curl up and enjoy the warmth of your home.
1. Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound ham, diced
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 carrots, peeled and diced
- 3 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
Rinse the soaked navy beans and place them in a large pot. Cover the beans with the chicken or vegetable broth and add the bay leaf and dried thyme.
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let the beans simmer for about 1 hour, or until they are tender.
While the beans are simmering, in a separate skillet, sauté the diced ham over medium heat until it’s lightly browned, about 5-7 minutes. Transfer the cooked ham to a plate and set aside.
In the same skillet, sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery until they are softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly.
Add the sautéed vegetables and the cooked ham to the pot with the simmering beans. Stir to combine and let the soup continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste.
Ladle the Ham and Bean Soup into bowls and garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
This hearty and comforting Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect dish to enjoy on a chilly day. The tender beans and savory ham create a delightful balance of flavors, while the aromatic vegetables add depth and complexity to the broth.
The best part? This recipe is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare. With minimal hands-on time and simple ingredients, you can have a batch of this satisfying soup simmering on the stove in no time.
