Ham and Bean Soup is a classic meal that's perfect for any occasion. It can be served as a main dish or side, and it's simple to make.
I first learned how to make ham and bean soup from my grandmother when I was about 10 years old. She taught me all her recipes, but this one was my favorite because it reminds me of her so much!
Ingredients
Ham and Bean Soup: A Delicious and Hearty Meal for Any Occasion
- 2 cups ham, diced
- 1 cup of beans, dried or canned (your choice)
- 2 cups broth (vegetable or chicken)
- 3 cups water
- 1 onion, chopped into small pieces or ½ cup onion powder if you don't have fresh onions on hand!
Stovetop Method
To make the soup on the stovetop, you'll need to prep all of your ingredients and then cook them for about 45 minutes. First, gather all of your ingredients.
- 1 pound dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 3 cups chopped onion (about 2 large onions)
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic cloves
Slow Cooker Method
To make this soup in the slow cooker, simply follow these steps:
Place all ingredients except for salt and pepper into a slow cooker and cook on low for 6 hours or until beans are tender.
Remove from heat and stir in salt and pepper to taste before serving
Instant Pot Method
- Preheat the Instant Pot and add the olive oil to the pot.
- Sauté the onion, celery, and garlic until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Add all other ingredients except for beans and ham hocks; cover with water by at least 1 inch (2 cups).
- Cook on high pressure for 30 minutes, then allow natural release for 15 minutes before manually releasing the remaining pressure if needed (this will depend on how much liquid is left in your soup).
- Add beans and ham hocks; cook another 20 minutes on high pressure or until beans are tender enough to mash easily with a fork
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup with crusty bread and a fresh salad for an easy, delicious meal. If you're looking for something more filling, try serving it with roasted vegetables or even on top of pasta!
Variations
You can customize this soup to your liking by adding different vegetables, proteins and seasonings. Some ideas include:
- Carrots and celery
- Chicken or ham chunks
- Bacon bits (for a smoky flavor)
- Cilantro and parsley for freshness
Storage and Reheating Tips
- Ham and Bean Soup is best when it's fresh, but if you have leftovers, here are some tips for storing and reheating:
- Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave.
Nutritional Information
Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty, healthy meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. The recipe below provides a breakdown of the nutritional information for one serving:
- Calories: 350
- Carbohydrates: 37g (13% DV)
- Dietary Fiber: 11g (44% DV)
- Fat: 14g (22% DV)
FAQs
What is ham and bean soup?
Ham and bean soup is a hearty soup made with ham and beans. It is a classic comfort food that is perfect for cold weather.
What ingredients are typically used in ham and bean soup?
The ingredients used in ham and bean soup can vary, but usually include ham, beans (such as navy beans or cannellini beans), onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and various spices.
How is ham and bean soup prepared?
There are several ways to prepare ham and bean soup. Some recipes call for the use of a slow cooker or Dutch oven, while others can be made on the stovetop. Common steps include soaking the beans overnight, adding the ham, vegetables, and spices, and simmering the soup for a few hours until everything is tender.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, canned beans can be used instead of dried beans. However, it is recommended to not drain the beans before adding them to the soup recipe. Great Northern Beans or Cannellini beans can also be used as substitutes.
What are some variations of ham and bean soup?
Some variations of ham and bean soup include adding diced potatoes, using a ham hock or bone for extra flavor, or making a creamy version with the addition of milk or cream.
Conclusion
Ham and Bean Soup is a delicious meal that can be made with ease, and it's perfect for any occasion. It's also extremely affordable, which makes it even more appealing!
Ham and Bean Soup is a great way to get your protein in for the day without having to spend too much money on meat. Plus, you'll feel good about eating something that's healthy and filling at the same time.
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