Name: Ham and Bean Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 105 min
Total time: 120 min
Yield: 6-8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 large onion, chopped; 2 carrots, peeled and chopped; 2 celery stalks, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred); 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary; 1 bay leaf; 1 pound cooked ham, diced (leftover ham is perfect!); 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for brightness); Optional: Crusty bread, for serving

Ham and Bean Soup: the ultimate comfort food, ready to warm you from the inside out! Is there anything quite as satisfying as a hearty bowl of this classic soup on a chilly evening? I think not! This isn't just any soup; it's a flavorful journey back to simpler times, a culinary hug in a bowl that has been passed down through generations.

The beauty of Ham and Bean Soup lies in its humble origins. Rooted in resourcefulness, this dish was born from the desire to make the most of leftover ham bones and dried beans – staples in many households. It's a testament to how simple ingredients, when combined with care and patience, can create something truly extraordinary. Think of it as a delicious way to reduce food waste while creating a memorable meal!

But why do people adore this soup so much? It's a symphony of textures and tastes! The creamy, tender beans mingle perfectly with the savory, smoky ham, creating a flavor profile that's both comforting and deeply satisfying. Plus, it's incredibly convenient! This is a one-pot wonder that's perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. So, grab your ingredients, and let's get cooking! You're about to discover (or rediscover) why this soup is a timeless favorite.

Ingredients:

1 pound dried Great Northern beans, rinsed
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
1 bay leaf
1 pound cooked ham, diced (leftover ham is perfect!)
1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for brightness)
Optional: Crusty bread, for serving

Soaking the Beans:

Before we dive into the soup-making process, let's talk about the beans. Soaking them is crucial for a couple of reasons. First, it helps to soften them, which significantly reduces the cooking time. Second, it helps to remove some of the indigestible sugars that can cause, well, you know... gas. Nobody wants that! There are two main methods for soaking beans:

Overnight Soak: This is the traditional method. Simply place the rinsed beans in a large pot and cover them with plenty of cold water (at least 2 inches above the beans). Let them soak for at least 8 hours, or preferably overnight. Before cooking, drain the beans and rinse them well.
Quick Soak: If you're short on time, the quick soak method works well. Place the rinsed beans in a large pot and cover them with plenty of cold water. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 2-3 minutes. Then, remove the pot from the heat, cover it, and let the beans soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.

I usually opt for the overnight soak because it's the most convenient for me. I just throw the beans in a pot before I go to bed, and they're ready to go in the morning!

Sautéing the Vegetables:

Now that our beans are prepped, let's move on to the flavor base of our soup: the vegetables. Sautéing them in olive oil helps to release their natural sweetness and creates a delicious foundation for the rest of the ingredients.

Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Make sure your pot is big enough to hold all the ingredients comfortably.
Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent, about 5-7 minutes. Don't rush this step; allowing the vegetables to soften properly will enhance the overall flavor of the soup.
Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.

Simmering the Soup:

This is where the magic happens! We'll combine the sautéed vegetables with the soaked beans, broth, and seasonings, and let everything simmer together until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded.

Add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot with the sautéed vegetables.
Pour in the chicken broth, making sure the beans are completely covered. If needed, add a little more broth or water.
Stir in the dried thyme, dried rosemary, and bay leaf. These herbs add a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot. The cooking time will vary depending on the age and type of beans you use.
Check the beans periodically for tenderness. They should be easily pierced with a fork. If the soup becomes too thick during simmering, add a little more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.

Adding the Ham and Finishing Touches:

Once the beans are tender, it's time to add the ham and finish off the soup. The ham adds a salty, smoky flavor that complements the beans perfectly.

Stir in the diced ham and cook for another 15-20 minutes, or until the ham is heated through. This allows the ham flavor to infuse into the soup.
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. It has done its job!
Stir in the chopped fresh parsley. Parsley adds a fresh, vibrant flavor and a pop of color to the soup.
Taste the soup and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember that the ham is already salty, so start with a small amount of salt and add more as needed.
If you like a little brightness in your soup, stir in the optional apple cider vinegar. It adds a subtle tang that really elevates the flavor.

Serving:

Now for the best part: enjoying your delicious homemade Ham and Bean Soup! This soup is hearty and satisfying on its own, but it's even better served with some crusty bread for dipping.

Ladle the soup into bowls.
Garnish with an extra sprinkle of fresh parsley, if desired.
Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.

Tips and Variations:

Smoked Ham Hock: For an even richer, smokier flavor, you can add a smoked ham hock to the soup while it's simmering. Remove the ham hock before serving and shred the meat, then return it to the soup.
Vegetarian Option: To make this soup vegetarian, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add some smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
Spice it Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it's simmering.
Thickening the Soup: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the beans. Be careful not to over-blend, as you still want some texture. Alternatively, you can remove a cup or two of the soup and blend it in a regular blender, then return it to the pot.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage.

I hope you enjoy this recipe as much as I do! It's a classic comfort food that's perfect for a chilly day. Don't be afraid to experiment with the ingredients and make it your own. Happy cooking!

Conclusion:

This Ham and Bean Soup isn't just another recipe; it's a warm hug in a bowl, a comforting classic that deserves a permanent spot in your culinary repertoire. I truly believe that once you taste the rich, smoky broth, the tender beans, and the savory ham, you'll understand why I'm so passionate about sharing this recipe. It's more than just food; it's an experience, a memory in the making. Why is it a must-try? Well, beyond its incredible flavor profile, this soup is incredibly versatile and budget-friendly. It's the perfect way to use up leftover holiday ham, transforming it into a hearty and satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Plus, it's packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious and filling option for those chilly evenings. The depth of flavor achieved through simple ingredients and a slow simmer is simply remarkable. You'll be amazed at how something so easy to make can taste so incredibly delicious. But the best part? You can easily customize this soup to your liking! Feel free to experiment with different types of beans – Great Northern, navy, or even kidney beans would work beautifully. For a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. And if you're feeling adventurous, try adding some smoked paprika for an extra layer of smoky flavor. Serving Suggestions and Variations: * Serve it with a crusty loaf of bread for dipping into the flavorful broth. * Top it with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for added richness. * Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. * For a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can even add some smoked tofu for a similar smoky flavor. * If you prefer a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender before serving. * Consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions for added nutrients and flavor. I've made this Ham and Bean Soup countless times, and each time it's a hit. I've tweaked it, experimented with it, and perfected it to my liking, and I'm confident that you'll love it just as much as I do. It's the kind of recipe that gets passed down through generations, a timeless classic that never goes out of style. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on your apron, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. I promise you won't be disappointed. And most importantly, don't be afraid to make it your own! Experiment with different flavors and ingredients until you find the perfect combination that suits your taste. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Ham and Bean Soup. Once you do, please come back and share your experience in the comments below! I'd love to hear your thoughts, your variations, and any tips or tricks you discover along the way. Let's create a community of soup lovers and share our passion for this comforting and delicious dish. Happy cooking!