This hearty Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting dish perfect for chilly days. Slow-cooked to perfection, it combines tender beans, flavorful vegetables, and succulent ham, making it an ideal choice for a satisfying dinner.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

1 meaty ham bone (or ham hock/ham shank)
8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 pound dried Great Northern beans
1 large carrot, diced
1 rib celery, diced
1 medium onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
½ teaspoon black pepper
Salt, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: Rinse the dried beans under cold water and drain.
Assemble in Slow Cooker: In a slow cooker, combine the chicken broth, rinsed beans, diced carrot, celery, onion, minced garlic, bay leaf, black pepper, and the ham bone (or substitute). Stir to mix the ingredients evenly.
Cook: Cover the slow cooker and set it to cook on HIGH for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Finalize the Soup: Once cooking is complete, remove and discard the bay leaf. Carefully take out the ham bone and place it on a cutting board. Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove any remaining meat, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup. Stir well to combine.
Season and Serve: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and serve warm.

Nutritional Facts

Per serving (based on 6 servings):

Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
Protein: 25g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Dietary Fiber: 12g
Sugars: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 800mg
Potassium: 900mg
Vitamin A: 35% DV
Vitamin C: 10% DV
Calcium: 10% DV
Iron: 20% DV

The Origins of Ham and Bean Soup

The roots of Ham and Bean Soup can be traced back to traditional European and American cuisine. In many cultures, bean soups have been a way to utilize affordable, hearty ingredients while maximizing nutrition and flavor. Ham, often a leftover from larger meals, would be incorporated into soups and stews to add flavor and protein. In the United States, particularly in rural areas, bean soups became a regular part of the diet due to the abundance of beans and ham in many households.

As time passed, Ham and Bean Soup became associated with comfort food. Its easy preparation, combined with its filling nature, made it an ideal dish for large families and communities. Whether cooked in a slow cooker, on the stove, or even in a pressure cooker, the simplicity of this recipe has made it a go-to meal for home cooks everywhere.

The Ingredients: Simple Yet Flavorful

At its core, Ham and Bean Soup relies on a handful of simple ingredients, yet the magic happens in how they combine during the cooking process. Beans, the primary ingredient, provide fiber, protein, and a mild, nutty flavor. The beans typically used in Ham and Bean Soup include Great Northern beans, navy beans, or even pinto beans. These varieties hold up well in soups and absorb the flavors of the broth and ham as they cook.

The ham in the soup adds depth and richness, with its smoky, savory flavor infusing the broth. A meaty ham bone, leftover from a holiday meal or cooked ham, is often the best choice for this recipe, as it imparts a robust flavor. If a ham bone isn’t available, chunks of ham can easily be substituted.

Vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery are also key players in this dish. These aromatics provide a foundation of flavor, building complexity and adding natural sweetness to balance the savory elements. Garlic, bay leaves, and black pepper are typically added for seasoning, offering subtle undertones of warmth and earthiness. Fresh parsley or other herbs can be used as garnish, giving the soup a pop of color and freshness when served.

The beauty of Ham and Bean Soup lies in its versatility. While the base ingredients remain the same, home cooks can personalize the recipe by adding other vegetables, herbs, or spices to suit their tastes. Some may opt for a touch of smoked paprika for an extra smoky flavor or a dash of vinegar to brighten up the soup. This adaptability allows for endless variations while still retaining the comforting essence of the original dish.

The Cooking Process: Patience Pays Off

One of the reasons why Ham and Bean Soup is so beloved is the process of slow-cooking the ingredients, allowing them to meld together into a flavorful and comforting dish. While it’s possible to make this soup on the stovetop or in a pressure cooker, the slow cooker method is especially popular for its ease and convenience.

Cooking the soup low and slow allows the beans to soften and absorb the rich flavors of the ham and broth. The ham bone slowly releases its meaty essence into the soup, creating a deeply flavorful base. As the ingredients cook together, the beans take on a creamy texture, while the vegetables soften and infuse the broth with sweetness.

Slow cooking also allows the soup to develop layers of flavor, with each ingredient having time to shine. Whether left to simmer on the stovetop or in a slow cooker, the result is a dish that’s hearty, satisfying, and full of comforting flavors. The process may take several hours, but the end result is well worth the wait.

The Health Benefits of Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup isn’t just delicious—it’s also packed with nutritional benefits. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, both of which are essential for maintaining a healthy diet. The fiber in beans helps support digestive health, regulate blood sugar levels, and lower cholesterol. The protein in beans makes this soup a filling and satisfying option, particularly for those who follow vegetarian or plant-based diets.

Ham, though higher in sodium, is a great source of protein as well. When paired with the beans, it provides a balance of flavors and nutrients. While the sodium content in ham can be a concern for some, using a low-sodium broth or limiting the added salt can help keep the overall sodium levels in check.

The vegetables in Ham and Bean Soup contribute additional vitamins and minerals, including vitamins A and C, which support immune function and overall health. Carrots provide a boost of beta-carotene, while celery adds a crunchy texture and a healthy dose of fiber.

Overall, Ham and Bean Soup can be part of a balanced diet when made with careful attention to ingredients. By choosing low-sodium broth, controlling the amount of added salt, and incorporating a variety of vegetables, this dish can be both nutritious and delicious.

Perfect Pairings and Serving Suggestions

Ham and Bean Soup is a complete meal in itself, but it can be paired with a variety of sides to create a more well-rounded dining experience. For a traditional touch, serve the soup with a slice of crusty bread or cornbread. The bread is perfect for dipping into the rich, savory broth, soaking up every last bit of flavor.

For a lighter pairing, a simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. A light fruit salad or a side of roasted vegetables can also complement the flavors of the soup, balancing the meal with freshness and nutrition.

If you’re looking to elevate the experience even further, a glass of crisp white wine or a light beer can make a delightful accompaniment. The crispness of the drink cuts through the richness of the soup, providing a refreshing balance.

Freezing and Storing Ham and Bean Soup

One of the advantages of making Ham and Bean Soup is that it stores and freezes exceptionally well. If you find yourself with leftovers, you can easily refrigerate or freeze the soup for later enjoyment. Let the soup cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container for refrigeration. It will last in the fridge for about 3-4 days.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Ham and Bean Soup is more than just a meal—it’s a symbol of comfort, tradition, and warmth. Its simplicity and versatility make it a dish that can be adapted to suit any taste, while its rich flavors and hearty ingredients make it a satisfying and wholesome choice for dinner. Whether enjoyed with family or served as a special treat on a chilly day, this soup continues to be a favorite among home cooks and food lovers alike.

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