Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to use your ham leftovers in an entirely new dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold Winter day. Enjoy a hearty bowl of comfort that not only warms you up but also utilizes every bit of that delicious holiday ham.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Beans
• Vegetables
• Liquids
• Spices
• Meat
• Fats
• Seasoning
• How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Step 1: Soak the Beans
• Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
• Step 3: Combine Ingredients
• Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage
• How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• With Crusty Bread
• Topped with Fresh Herbs
• With a Side Salad
• Accompanied by Cheese
• As Part of a Potluck
• With Crackers
• How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use different types of beans in this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
• How do I make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe vegetarian?
• How long does this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe take to cook?
• What should I serve with Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.
• Rich in Flavor: The combination of ham, beans, and spices creates a deeply satisfying taste that everyone will love.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and healthy, making it a smart choice for your dinner table.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect as a main course or as a side dish, this soup adapts well to any occasion from family dinners to casual gatherings.
• Freezable Leftovers: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later on.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Ham and Bean Soup Recipe effortlessly, you’ll need some essential tools. Having the right equipment can significantly enhance your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Measuring spoons
• Ladle

Importance of Each Tool

• Dutch oven: This tool is perfect for slow-cooking soups due to its excellent heat retention.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping veggies, ensuring safety and ease during prep work.
• Knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions, carrots, and celery quick and efficient.

Ingredients

Beans

• 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans

Vegetables

• 1 White Onion (chopped)
• 4 Carrots (chopped)
• 2 Celery Stalks (sliced)
• 5 Garlic Cloves (finely chopped)
• 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage

Liquids

• 64 ounces Chicken Stock
• 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes

Spices

• 1 Bay Leaf
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
• 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
• Fresh Cracked Pepper

Meat

• 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham

Fats

• 3 Tablespoons Oil

Seasoning

• Salt – to taste (if needed)

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Soak the Beans

1. Rinse the dried beans under cold water.
2. Cover the beans with several inches of water and let them soak overnight.
3. Once soaked, rinse them again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

1. Heat oil in a large dutch oven pot over high heat.
2. Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for about 4–5 minutes while stirring frequently.
3. Stir in the garlic and sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

1. Add the rinsed beans into the pot along with chicken stock, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and pepper.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil then reduce heat to simmer.
3. Cover the pot slightly ajar and cook for 90 minutes. If beans are still firm after this time, cook for an additional 30 minutes.

Step 4: Add Ham and Cabbage

1. Remove the lid from the pot.
2. Stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage; continue cooking for another 15–20 minutes.
3. Taste the soup before adding salt; adjust seasoning as necessary by discarding bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy your comforting bowl of Ham and Bean Soup!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can elevate the meal experience and make it more enjoyable. Here are some creative suggestions to complement this hearty dish.

With Crusty Bread

• Freshly baked or toasted bread pairs perfectly with the soup, allowing you to soak up every flavorful drop.

Topped with Fresh Herbs

• Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of freshness that adds color and flavor.

With a Side Salad

• A light green salad can balance the richness of the soup, offering a refreshing crunch alongside each spoonful.

Accompanied by Cheese

• Serve with shredded cheese such as cheddar on top for added creaminess and flavor that melds beautifully with the soup.

As Part of a Potluck

• This soup is perfect for sharing at gatherings. Serve in a large pot and let guests help themselves for a communal feast.

With Crackers

• Crisp crackers provide a delightful texture contrast. Choose flavored varieties to enhance the taste experience.

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How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Perfecting your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe ensures that every bowl is delicious. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

• Soak beans overnight: This reduces cooking time and helps achieve a tender texture.

• Use quality broth: Opt for homemade or low-sodium chicken stock for richer flavor without excessive salt.

• Adjust seasonings: Taste as you go; adding herbs, spices, or even hot sauce can tailor the soup to your liking.

• Cook low and slow: Allowing the soup to simmer enhances flavors. A longer cook time can also soften beans further.

• Add leftover vegetables: Incorporate any veggies you have on hand, such as spinach or bell peppers, for added nutrition and variety.

• Store leftovers properly: Refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container. Reheat gently on the stove to maintain texture.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Choosing side dishes can enhance your meal featuring Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Cornbread: Sweet or savory cornbread is a classic pairing that complements the flavors of ham and beans wonderfully.

2. Garlic Bread: Crunchy garlic bread adds an aromatic touch that pairs well with the rich soup.

3. Coleslaw: The crispness of coleslaw balances the warm soup, making it a refreshing addition to your meal.

4. Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized roasted veggies bring out natural sweetness that harmonizes with the heartiness of the soup.

5. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad provides comfort alongside your warm bowl of soup, creating a satisfying meal.

6. Pickled Vegetables: The tangy flavor of pickles cuts through richness, adding brightness to your dining experience.

7. Grilled Cheese Sandwiches: A gooey grilled cheese is always a favorite, perfect for dunking into your soup!

8. Stuffed Peppers: Colorful stuffed peppers filled with rice or quinoa complement the flavors of ham and bean soup while adding extra nutrients.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Using leftover ham for your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be simple, but it’s easy to make mistakes. Here are some common pitfalls:

• Skipping the soak: Failing to soak the dried beans can lead to tough beans. Always soak them overnight for a smoother texture.
• Ignoring seasoning: Not tasting the soup before serving can result in bland flavors. Always adjust seasoning at the end to enhance the taste.
• Overcooking vegetables: Cooking vegetables too long can make them mushy. Add them at the right time to maintain their texture and flavor.
• Not checking bean doneness: If you don’t check the beans while cooking, they might remain hard. Test for doneness to ensure a perfect consistency.
• Using too much salt: Adding salt before tasting might make your soup overly salty. Use caution, especially with salty ham.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in airtight containers.
• Keeps well for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe bags or containers.
• Can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake in an oven-safe dish until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
• Microwave: Use a microwave-safe bowl; heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warm.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low heat in a pot, stirring occasionally until hot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of beans in this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

Yes! You can substitute with other beans like Great Northern or pinto beans. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How do I make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe vegetarian?

To make it vegetarian, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock. You can add more veggies for extra flavor.

How long does this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe take to cook?

The total cooking time is approximately 2 hours after soaking the beans overnight.

What should I serve with Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is not only a fantastic way to use leftover ham but also offers warmth and comfort on chilly days. It’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite vegetables or spices. Give it a try, and enjoy flavorful leftovers reimagined!