Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

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Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

Introduction

This classic ham and bean soup is a heartwarming dish that has stood the test of time. With a rich history rooted in frugality and tradition, it combines tender ham, creamy beans, and a medley of vegetables to create a flavorful, protein-packed meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a comforting dish to share with loved ones, this soup is as nutritious as it is delicious.

Ingredients

  • Protein and Beans:
  • 1 ham bone or 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup dried navy beans
  • 1 cup dried kidney beans
  • 1 cup dried cannellini beans
  • Vegetables:
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned)
  • Broth and Seasoning:
  • 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 bay leaf
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Optional Additions:
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (for sautéing)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preparation:
  • Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight in water. Drain and set aside.
  • If using a ham bone, trim off excess meat and reserve for the soup.
  1. Cooking the Base:
  • In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
  • Sauté onions, carrots, and celery until softened (about 5 minutes).
  • Add garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  1. Adding the Beans and Broth:
  • Add the soaked beans, diced tomatoes, ham bone (or diced ham), and chicken broth to the pot.
  • Stir in thyme, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf.
  1. Simmering:
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
  • Check the beans for tenderness and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper.
  1. Final Touches:
  • Remove the ham bone and shred any remaining meat back into the soup.
  • Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Methods

  • Slow Cooker Method: Combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 8 hours or high for 4 hours.
  • Pressure Cooker Method: Cook the beans and ham bone in a pressure cooker for 40 minutes. Then, add sautéed vegetables and simmer for 10 minutes

Methods for Making Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

1. Traditional Stove-Top Method

  1. Soak the Beans:
  • Rinse the beans under cold water and remove any debris. Soak them overnight in water or use the quick-soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain before use.
  1. Prepare the Ingredients:
  • Dice the vegetables (onions, carrots, celery, and garlic) and set them aside. If using a ham bone, trim off excess meat and set it aside.
  1. Sauté the Vegetables:
  • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 minutes until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
  1. Combine Ingredients:
  • Add the soaked beans, ham bone (or diced ham), tomatoes, and broth. Stir in seasonings like thyme, paprika, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
  1. Simmer:
  • Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. Check the beans for tenderness.
  1. Finish the Soup:
  • Remove the ham bone and shred any meat back into the soup. Discard the bone and bay leaf. Adjust the seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving

2. Slow Cooker Method

  1. Add all ingredients (including soaked beans, vegetables, ham bone, broth, and seasonings) to the slow cooker.
  2. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
  3. Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and stir it back into the soup. Serve warm.

3. Pressure Cooker/Instant Pot Method

  1. Sauté the Vegetables:
  • Use the sauté function on the pressure cooker to cook the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic for 3-5 minutes.
  1. Add the Ingredients:
  • Add the soaked beans, ham bone, tomatoes, broth, and seasonings to the pot. Stir well.
  1. Pressure Cook:
  • Seal the lid and set to high pressure for 40 minutes. Allow the pressure to release naturally for about 10-15 minutes, then carefully release any remaining pressure.
  1. Finish the Soup:
  • Remove the ham bone, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Stir and serve warm.

4. Quick Method with Canned Beans

  1. Use canned beans (drained and rinsed) instead of dried beans to reduce cooking time.
  2. Follow the stove-top method but skip the soaking step and reduce the simmering time to about 30-40 minutes.

Tips for Perfect Results

  • Texture: If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot.
  • Customizations:
  • Add potatoes, spinach, or kale for extra nutrients.
  • Use smoked turkey as a substitute for ham for a lower-fat option.
  • Flavor Boost: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice at the end for a tangy kick.

These methods ensure a hearty, flavorful soup whether you’re using a slow cooker, pressure cooker, or the stovetop

History

Ham and bean soup is a staple in many cultures worldwide, often seen as a way to utilize leftovers like ham bones. In the United States, it’s famously associated with the U.S. Senate, where it has been served in the Senate dining room since the early 20th century. Its origins lie in making affordable and nourishing meals during hard times, especially during wartime and the Great Depression.

Benefits

  • Nutritional Value:
  • High in protein from ham and beans.
  • Rich in fiber, aiding digestion and promoting heart health.
  • Packed with vitamins from vegetables like carrots and celery.
  • Affordable and Sustainable:
  • Uses leftover ingredients effectively, minimizing food waste.
  • Comfort Food:
  • Warm, hearty, and satisfying, ideal for cold weather

  1. Rich in Protein:
  • The combination of ham and beans provides a high-quality protein source, essential for muscle repair, immune health, and overall energy.
  1. High in Fiber:
  • Beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion, prevents constipation, and helps regulate blood sugar levels.
  1. Nutrient-Dense:
  • Packed with vitamins and minerals like iron, potassium, folate, and magnesium from beans and vegetables, this soup supports overall body functions, including heart health and energy production.
  1. Boosts Immunity:
  • Ingredients like garlic, carrots, and parsley contain antioxidants and nutrients that strengthen the immune system.
  1. Low-Cost and Sustainable:
  • Ham and bean soup is economical, using pantry staples like beans and leftovers like ham bones, making it an affordable, waste-minimizing dish.
  1. Heart Health:
  • Beans are known to help lower cholesterol and blood pressure, reducing the risk of heart disease. Paired with low-sodium broth, it can be made heart-friendly.
  1. Keeps You Full:
  • The high fiber and protein content make this soup satisfying, reducing the temptation to snack between meals and supporting weight management.
  1. Comforting and Versatile:
  • This soup’s warm, hearty nature makes it ideal for colder weather or as a soothing dish during illness. It’s easily customizable to suit dietary preferences or ingredient availability.
  1. Supports Bone Health:
  • The ham bone, when simmered, releases collagen, calcium, and other minerals that contribute to stronger bones and joint health.
  1. Great for Meal Prep:
    • This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping and busy weeknights.

By combining affordability, nutrition, and comfort, this soup serves as a wholesome and satisfying meal for all ages.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250
  • Protein: 20g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 8g
  • Fat: 6g
  • Sodium: 600mg

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

(Based on a typical serving size of 1.5 cups, approximately 8 servings per recipe)

  • Calories: 250-300 kcal
  • Protein: 20-22 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30-35 g
  • Fiber: 8-10 g
  • Sugar: 2-3 g
  • Fat: 5-8 g
  • Saturated Fat: 2 g
  • Cholesterol: 25-30 mg
  • Sodium: 600-800 mg (can be reduced with low-sodium broth)
  • Potassium: 800-900 mg
  • Iron: 15-20% of the daily recommended intake
  • Vitamin A: 35-40% of the daily recommended intake
  • Vitamin C: 10-15% of the daily recommended intake
  • Calcium: 5-8% of the daily recommended intake

Key Nutritional Highlight

  1. High in Protein: Ideal for muscle repair and energy.
  2. Rich in Fiber: Promotes digestion and helps control cholesterol levels.
  3. Low in Fat: A heart-healthy choice, especially with lean ham or turkey substitutions.
  4. Packed with Micronutrients: High levels of potassium, iron, and vitamins support overall health, including blood pressure regulation, immune function, and red blood cell production.

This soup provides a balanced meal packed with nutrients while being comforting and filling! Adjust ingredients (e.g., using turkey ham or more vegetables) to suit your dietary needs.

Formation and Presentation

Serve this soup hot in deep bowls with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. Add a sprinkle of parsley for color and a squeeze of lemon for a tangy contrast.

Conclusion

Hearty ham and bean soup is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of tradition, family, and the power of simple ingredients. Whether you’re gathering around the table on a winter night or enjoying leftovers for lunch, this soup is sure to bring warmth and joy.

Lovers of Ham and Bean Soup

Fans of comfort food will adore this dish. It’s particularly beloved by families who value tradition and anyone who enjoys hearty, protein-rich meals.

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