Hearty Ham and Bean Soup: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
When the temperatures drop and you crave something warm and filling, there’s nothing quite like a bowl of hearty ham and bean soup. This classic dish is not only packed with flavor but also offers a satisfying blend of protein and fiber, making it a wholesome choice for any meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy dinner or a dish to share with loved ones, this recipe promises to deliver comfort in every spoonful.
A Personal Story Behind My Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Journey
Growing up, my grandmother would make ham and bean soup every winter. The smell would waft through the house, inviting everyone to the kitchen. I remember sitting around the table with my family, sharing stories and laughter over steaming bowls of this delicious soup. Now, I love recreating that same warmth and joy in my own home, and I’m excited to share this special recipe with you.
What Makes This Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe Special?
This recipe stands out due to its simplicity and the rich flavors that develop from slow cooking. By using smoked ham shanks, you’ll infuse the soup with a deep, savory taste that pairs perfectly with the creamy texture of the beans. The combination of herbs adds an aromatic touch, making this dish a true delight for the senses. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, allowing you to enjoy a comforting meal with minimal effort.
The Full Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 pound (2 1/2 cups) dry white beans, like cannellini or Great Northern
- 2 quarts water
- 2 to 3 pounds smoked ham shanks or ham hocks
- 2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onions (about 1 small onion)
- 1 cup chopped celery (about 2 to 3 ribs)
- 2/3 cup chopped carrots (about 1 medium carrot)
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Tabasco sauce, to taste
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Soak the dry beans: In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Turn off the heat, add the dry beans, and let them soak for about 2 hours. This step helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. After soaking, drain the water.
- Simmer the ham: In another large pot, place the smoked ham shanks or hocks and cover them with 2 quarts of fresh water. Add the Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat, partially cover, and simmer for about an hour. This process infuses the broth with a smoky flavor.
- Sauté the onions: In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth to the soup.
- Add vegetables and beans to the ham broth: After simmering the ham for an hour, add the drained soaked beans, sautéed onions and garlic, chopped celery, and carrots to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Simmer the soup: Cook uncovered for about 40 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the ham meat easily pulls away from the bone. Remove the ham bones, pull off any meat, and return it to the soup. Discard the bones. This step ensures you have tender meat in your soup.
- Season to taste: Add Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Serve the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. You can also add other vegetables such as spinach or kale for extra nutrition. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of crushed red pepper flakes. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon to create a creamier texture.
Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans? Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker version. Just rinse and drain them, and add them to the soup in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
How long will the soup keep? The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps, but add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours for a hands-off approach.
Enjoy a comforting bowl of this delicious ham and bean soup, perfect for chilly days!
Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
Equipment
- Large pot For simmering the soup.
- Sauté pan For sautéing onions and garlic.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound dry white beans like cannellini or Great Northern
- 2 quarts water
- 2 pounds smoked ham shanks or hocks
- 2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 cup diced onions about 1 small onion
- 1 cup chopped celery about 2 to 3 ribs
- 2.67 cups chopped carrots about 1 medium carrot
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 dash Tabasco sauce to taste
- 1 pinch salt to taste
- 1 pinch pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, bring 2 quarts of water to a boil. Turn off the heat, add the dry beans, and let them soak for about 2 hours. This step helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. After soaking, drain the water.
- In another large pot, place the smoked ham shanks or hocks and cover them with 2 quarts of fresh water. Add the Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning. Bring to a simmer over high heat, then reduce the heat, partially cover, and simmer for about an hour. This process infuses the broth with a smoky flavor.
- In a sauté pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and cook until translucent, about 5 to 6 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth to the soup.
- After simmering the ham for an hour, add the drained soaked beans, sautéed onions and garlic, chopped celery, and carrots to the pot. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Cook uncovered for about 40 minutes until the vegetables are soft and the ham meat easily pulls away from the bone. Remove the ham bones, pull off any meat, and return it to the soup. Discard the bones. This step ensures you have tender meat in your soup.
- Add Tabasco sauce, salt, and pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning according to your preference. Serve the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.