Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup: 7 Reasons to Indulge Today

There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, and that’s exactly what my Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup brings to the table! I can’t help but get excited when I think about how effortlessly this hearty meal comes together in my Instant Pot, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays.

This soup is like a warm hug in a bowl, filled with tender navy beans and savory chunks of ham. The combination of fresh veggies like carrots and celery adds a wonderful depth of flavor, while the chicken broth ties it all together beautifully. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself craving it again and again, especially as the temperatures drop!

Don’t be surprised if this Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup becomes a staple in your kitchen, too. It’s not just about the delicious taste; it’s also about the joy of gathering around a hearty meal that warms your soul. Let’s dive into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients List

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup. Gather these simple ingredients, and let’s get started!

• 1 lb dried navy beans: Make sure to rinse and soak these overnight for the best results.
• 1 cup diced ham: Leftover ham works perfectly here, adding great flavor.
• 1 medium onion, chopped: This adds a savory base to the soup.
• 2 carrots, diced: Fresh carrots bring a hint of sweetness and color.
• 2 celery stalks, diced: A must for that classic soup flavor!
• 4 cups chicken broth: Use low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt.
• 1 tsp garlic powder: For that extra layer of flavor.
• 1 tsp thyme: A lovely herb that complements the ham beautifully.
• Salt and pepper to taste: Always adjust these to your liking!

Once you have all these ingredients ready, we’ll be on our way to creating a comforting bowl of soup that’s sure to warm you up! Ready? Let’s move on to the cooking instructions!

How to Prepare Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup

Now that we’ve got our ingredients gathered, let’s dive into the exciting part – cooking up this scrumptious Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup! I promise you, it’s as easy as pie (or should I say soup?). Here’s how to do it step by step:

1. Rinse and soak the beans: Start by rinsing your dried navy beans under cold water. Then, soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. This will help them cook faster and make them super tender.
2. Set up your Instant Pot: Once your beans are ready, turn on your Instant Pot and select the sauté function. Let it heat up for a minute or two.
3. Sauté the veggies and ham: Add the diced ham, chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery to the pot. Cook everything for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the veggies are softened and fragrant. Oh, that smell is fantastic!
4. Add the beans and broth: Now, it’s time to add your soaked beans into the pot along with the chicken broth, garlic powder, thyme, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine all those delicious flavors.
5. Pressure cook: Close the lid of the Instant Pot and set it to high pressure for 30 minutes. Don’t worry, the magic is about to happen!
6. Natural release: Once the cooking time is up, allow the Instant Pot to naturally release the pressure for 10 minutes. After that, you can quick release any remaining pressure by carefully turning the valve. Just watch out for the steam!
7. Stir and serve: Finally, give your soup a good stir, taste it, and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, maybe with a slice of crusty bread, and enjoy the cozy warmth of your homemade soup!

And there you have it! You’ve just whipped up a delightful Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup that’s ready to warm your heart and fill your belly. I can’t wait for you to taste it!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup is not just a meal; it’s an experience! Here are a few reasons why this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your home:

• Quick Preparation: Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a hearty meal in just about an hour, with minimal hands-on time!
• Hearty Flavors: The combination of savory ham, tender navy beans, and fresh veggies creates a rich, satisfying flavor that warms you from the inside out.
• Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only delicious but also a nutritious option for your family.
• Perfect for Leftovers: This recipe is a great way to use leftover ham, making it both economical and practical!
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or spices to make it your own. The possibilities are endless!

I just know you’ll love this soup as much as I do! It’s a cozy bowl of goodness that’s perfect for any day of the week.

Tips for Success

To make sure your Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup turns out absolutely delicious, I’ve gathered some handy tips that will help you nail this recipe every time. Trust me, these little nuggets of wisdom can make a big difference!

• Soak the beans: Don’t skip the soaking step! It not only reduces cooking time but also helps the beans cook evenly. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then letting them sit in the hot water for an hour.
• Season as you go: Taste your soup after cooking and adjust the seasonings. Sometimes a pinch more salt or a dash of pepper brings all the flavors together beautifully. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it out!
• Use quality broth: The chicken broth is a key component in this soup, so opt for a good-quality broth or stock. Homemade is best if you have it, but low-sodium store-bought works just fine too.
• Experiment with spices: While the garlic powder and thyme are perfect, don’t hesitate to get creative! A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper can add a lovely twist to the flavor profile.
• Let it sit: If you can, let the soup sit for a bit before serving. It allows the flavors to meld together even more, and trust me, it’s worth the wait!

With these tips in your back pocket, you’re all set to make the best Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup ever! I can’t wait for you to dig in and enjoy every hearty spoonful. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about this Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup is how versatile it is! You can easily switch things up to suit your taste or accommodate what you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Different Beans: While navy beans are fantastic, you can experiment with other types like great northern beans, pinto beans, or even kidney beans. Each type brings its own unique flavor and texture to the soup!
• Veggie Boost: Feel free to toss in extra vegetables! Chopped spinach, kale, or even sweet potatoes can enhance both the nutrition and flavor of your soup. Just remember that some veggies may require slightly different cooking times.
• Spice it Up: If you love a little heat, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when sautéing the veggies. A dash of hot sauce at the end can also bring a delightful kick!
• Herbs and Seasonings: Switch up the thyme with other herbs like rosemary or oregano for a different flavor profile. Fresh herbs added right before serving can really brighten the dish!
• Smoky Flavor: For a smoky twist, try adding a bit of diced smoked sausage or bacon along with the ham. It’ll give your soup that delicious, smoky depth that’s hard to resist.

With these variations, you can keep this Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup fresh and exciting every time you make it. Don’t be afraid to get creative and make it your own! I can’t wait to hear about your tasty adaptations!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Now that you’ve enjoyed your delicious Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup, you might have some leftovers (if you’re lucky!). Storing and reheating soup properly is crucial to keep those wonderful flavors intact. Here’s how to do it:

Storing Leftovers: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. I like to use glass containers since they’re easy to reheat in the microwave. The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days, but you can also freeze it for longer storage.

If you decide to freeze it, portion it into smaller containers or freezer bags to make reheating easier later. Just remember to leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen!

Reheating Instructions: When you’re ready to enjoy your soup again, the best method is to reheat it gently. You can do this on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. If it seems a bit thick, just add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.

If you’re short on time, the microwave works great too! Just pour the soup into a microwave-safe bowl, cover it loosely (to prevent splatters), and heat it in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between, until it’s hot.

Your Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup will taste just as good the second time around, so don’t hesitate to enjoy those leftovers! Just follow these simple steps, and you’ll be savoring the warmth and goodness all over again.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to enjoying a hearty soup like my Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup, it’s always nice to know what you’re putting into your body. Here’s an estimated breakdown of the nutritional values per serving (about 1 cup) of this comforting dish:

• Calories: 250
• Fat: 5g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 4g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 40g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sugar: 2g
• Protein: 15g
• Sodium: 800mg
• Cholesterol: 25mg

This soup is not only delicious but also a great source of protein and fiber, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Remember, these values can vary slightly based on the specific ingredients you use, but it gives you a good idea of the wholesome goodness packed into each bowl. Enjoy knowing that you’re treating yourself to something nutritious and comforting!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup? No worries, I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries along with my answers to help guide you through making this delicious dish.

Q1: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can use canned navy beans instead. Just make sure to drain and rinse them before adding to the soup. You’ll want to skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time to about 10-15 minutes under high pressure, since the beans are already cooked.

Q2: Is there a way to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms to give it that hearty feel!

Q3: How spicy is this soup? Can I make it spicier?
The base recipe isn’t spicy at all, but if you love a kick, feel free to add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños when you sauté the veggies. That’ll bring some heat to your bowl!

Q4: How can I thicken the soup if it’s too watery?
If you find your soup is a little too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot after cooking. This will help release their starch and create a creamier texture. You can also add a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons of cold water) and let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
Yes, you can double the recipe! Just be mindful not to exceed the maximum fill line in your Instant Pot. You may need to adjust the cooking time slightly, but the high pressure cooking will generally remain the same. It’s a great way to have leftovers for the week!

I hope these FAQs help you feel more confident as you whip up this comforting Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup! If you have any other questions, don’t hesitate to ask. Happy cooking!

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