Are you ready to warm your soul with a bowl of hearty goodness? Dive into the comforting embrace of Old Fashioned Ham Bean Soup, a classic American dish that’s as nostalgic as it is delicious! With its rich flavors and creamy texture, this soup is the perfect way to make use of those dried navy beans sitting in your pantry. Whether it's a chilly evening or a gathering with family, this recipe promises to be a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds. Don’t miss out on the chance to create a dish that’s not just a meal, but a cherished memory in every spoonful!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs 30 mins
Total Time: 2 hrs 45 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tsp thyme
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried navy beans, removing any stones or damaged beans. Place beans in a large bowl and cover with cold water, allowing them to soak overnight at room temperature.
- The next day, drain and rinse the soaked beans thoroughly under cold running water to remove any excess starch.
- In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed soup pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery, sautéing until the vegetables become soft and the onions turn translucent, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the diced ham to the vegetables and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to release its flavors.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked beans, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
- Bring the mixture to a full boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer the soup gently, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, for approximately 2 to
- 5 hours or until beans are tender and creamy.
- Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper as needed.
- Let the soup rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld and soup to thicken slightly.
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or additional diced ham if desired.
Tips
- Soak Your Beans: For the best texture, soak your dried navy beans overnight. This not only helps them cook evenly but also reduces the cooking time.
- Sauté for Flavor: Don't skip the sautéing step! Cooking the onions, carrots, and celery until soft enhances the flavor base of your soup, making it richer and more aromatic.
- Use Quality Broth: The chicken broth is key to the soup's flavor. Opt for a low-sodium variety so you can control the saltiness, especially since you're adding ham, which can be salty.
- Adjust Seasoning: After cooking, taste your soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper. Remember, flavors develop as the soup sits, so it’s okay if it tastes a bit different right after cooking.
- Let It Rest: Allow the soup to sit for 10-15 minutes before serving. This resting period helps the flavors meld together and thickens the soup slightly, making it even more delicious.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or extra diced ham on top before serving not only adds a pop of color but also enhances the dish's visual appeal.
- Make It Ahead: This soup tastes even better the next day! Feel free to make it in advance and reheat when you're ready to serve.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
