Cozy White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe for Comforting Nights

The aroma of simmering ham mingled with the earthiness of white beans creates a cozy embrace that welcomes you home. Imagine a bowl of White Bean and Ham Soup, with its creamy texture and rich flavors, offering warmth on chilly evenings or during unexpected rainy days.

This recipe isn’t just about food; it’s about gathering loved ones around the table, sharing stories, and indulging in hearty comfort. I still remember my grandma’s version, bubbling away on the stove while we fought over who got to stir the pot. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that’s perfect for any occasion, promising to fill your kitchen with mouthwatering scents.

Ingredients for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• White Beans: Use dried or canned white beans like Great Northern or cannellini for creaminess and heartiness.

• Ham Hock: This adds a smoky flavor; if you don’t have one, diced ham works too!

• Onion: A medium onion, diced finely will provide sweetness and depth to the soup.

• Carrots: Chopped carrots add sweetness; choose vibrant ones for better color.

• Celery: Celery contributes crunch and freshness; it should be diced evenly.

• Garlic: Freshly minced garlic enhances flavor; use about three cloves for best results.

• Chicken Broth: Low-sodium chicken broth helps control salt levels while adding rich flavor.

• Bay Leaves: One or two bay leaves provide aromatic notes; remember to remove them before serving.

• Thyme: Fresh or dried thyme gives an earthy herbal note that complements the soup beautifully.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Start by soaking your beans overnight if using dried ones. This reduces cooking time significantly and ensures they become tender without turning mushy.

In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion in olive oil until it turns translucent and fragrant. You’ll know it’s ready when it starts sweetening up—around five minutes should do!

Add in the chopped carrots and celery next. Stir these veggies around until they soften slightly—about three to four minutes will do. You want them tender but not mushy!

Toss in the minced garlic and cook just until fragrant—about thirty seconds—being careful not to burn it! The smell will be heavenly at this point.

Next comes our star player: add your ham hock (or diced ham), followed by those lovely soaked beans. Don’t forget the bay leaves! Trust me, they’re like little flavor bombs waiting to explode.

Pour in your chicken broth until everything is submerged. Bring this delicious concoction to a boil over high heat before reducing it to a gentle simmer.

Cover the pot partially and let it bubble away for about an hour if using dried beans or thirty minutes if using canned ones. You want those flavors to meld beautifully!

After simmering, carefully remove the ham hock (if used), shred any meat from it back into the soup, discarding skin or bones as necessary. This step adds extra richness!

Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper after tasting—this is your chance to personalize those flavors!

Finally, ladle that warm bowl of goodness into bowls and garnish with fresh thyme or parsley if you’re feeling fancy.

Serve hot with crusty bread on the side for dipping—a perfect match made in culinary heaven! Enjoy every spoonful of that creamy warmth as you dive into comfort food bliss!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions, carrots, and celery until tender. Then, add garlic and cook briefly before incorporating the ham. Next, stir in the beans and broth, letting everything simmer to allow flavors to meld beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap the ham for turkey or bacon for a smoky twist. Consider adding kale or spinach for extra greens, and try different herbs like thyme or rosemary to elevate the flavor profile of your soup.

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. For reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to maintain consistency.

Sometimes I whip up this white bean and ham soup on cold winter evenings when friends come over, and their compliments make me feel like a culinary wizard!

FAQs:

What ingredients do I need for the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

To make a delicious White Bean and Ham Soup, you will need essential ingredients such as dried white beans, diced ham, onion, garlic, celery, carrots, vegetable or chicken broth, bay leaves, thyme, and salt and pepper for seasoning. Fresh herbs like parsley can also enhance the flavor. Make sure to soak the beans overnight for the best texture. This combination not only creates a hearty meal but also fills your kitchen with delightful aromas.

How long does it take to prepare the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

The preparation time for the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe is approximately 15 minutes. However, keep in mind that soaking the beans requires overnight soaking time. The cooking process takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on the stovetop or can be made in a slow cooker for about 6-8 hours on low heat. This extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a comforting soup that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I freeze leftovers from the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

Yes, you can absolutely freeze leftovers from your White Bean and Ham Soup. To do this effectively, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s recommended to store portions that you would typically consume at one sitting. When ready to enjoy again, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave until heated through.

What are some variations of the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

There are many exciting variations of the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe that you can try. You can add kale or spinach for extra nutrients or replace ham with turkey for a lighter option. For a spicy kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños. Additionally, using smoked paprika instead of regular paprika can deepen the flavor profile of your soup. Feel free to experiment with ingredients based on your taste preferences!

Conclusion for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe:

In summary, making a wholesome White Bean and Ham Soup is both simple and rewarding. With its rich flavors stemming from quality ingredients like dried white beans and hearty ham, this soup is perfect for warming up on chilly days. Remember to soak your beans overnight for optimal results. This recipe not only nourishes but also brings comfort in every bowl. Enjoy serving this delicious dish to family and friends at any gathering!

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White Bean and Ham Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

White Bean and Ham Soup is a heartwarming dish that beautifully blends creamy white beans and savory ham, perfect for chilly evenings. This easy-to-make recipe not only fills your kitchen with cozy aromas but also brings family and friends together around the table. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, this soup is sure to become a favorite for busy weeknights.

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Ingredients

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• 1 cup dried white beans (Great Northern or cannellini)
• 1 ham hock (or 1 cup diced ham)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Soak the dried beans overnight in water. Drain before use.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, sauté the diced onion in olive oil until translucent (about 5 minutes).
3. Add the chopped carrots and celery; stir until slightly softened (3-4 minutes).
4. Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add the ham hock or diced ham, soaked beans, bay leaves, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to a simmer; cover partially and cook for about 1 hour (if using dried beans) or 30 minutes (if using canned beans).
7. Remove ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup and discard skin/bones.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Soup
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 7g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg