There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, isn’t there? The way the savory aroma wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a cozy embrace, is simply irresistible. One of my all-time favorite comfort food recipes is *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup*. It’s the kind of dish that feels like a warm hug after a long day, and it always brings back fond memories of family gatherings around the table. I remember my grandmother making this soup on cold winter evenings, filling the house with its heartwarming scent. The combination of tender ham and creamy beans in a rich broth is not only satisfying but also incredibly nourishing. Trust me, once you try this comforting bowl of goodness, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, especially when the weather turns brisk. Let’s dive into how to create this soul-soothing dish!

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you need to whip up a delicious pot of *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup*. Gather these ingredients and let’s get cooking!

1 lb ham, diced into bite-sized pieces – leftover ham works beautifully for extra flavor.
1 cup dried white beans, soaked overnight – they’ll soften up and become creamy in the soup.
1 onion, chopped – brings sweetness and depth to the broth.
2 carrots, diced – adds a lovely touch of color and sweetness.
2 celery stalks, diced – for that classic soup crunch and flavor.
3 cloves garlic, minced – because who doesn’t love garlic?
6 cups chicken broth – the soul of the soup, rich and savory.
1 bay leaf – just one adds a subtle depth.
1 tsp thyme – fresh or dried, it brings a warm earthiness.
Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing all those flavors together.

How to Prepare Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup

Making this *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup* is a delightful process that fills your kitchen with enchanting aromas. Follow these steps, and you’ll have a steaming pot of deliciousness in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté them for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This step lays the flavor foundation for your soup!
Add Garlic: Once your veggies are looking good, stir in the minced garlic. Cook for another minute, just until the garlic starts to get aromatic—don’t let it burn, or it’ll turn bitter!
Incorporate the Ham: Now it’s time for the star of the show! Stir in the diced ham and cook for 2 more minutes, allowing it to pick up some of those lovely flavors from the veggies.
Combine the Rest: Add your soaked white beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, and thyme into the pot. Give everything a good stir, ensuring the beans are submerged in the broth. This is what creates that hearty, warming soup!
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Once it’s bubbling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens! Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender and infused with flavor.
Season and Serve: Before serving, taste the soup and add salt and pepper according to your preference. Don’t forget to fish out and discard the bay leaf. Now, you’re ready to ladle this comforting goodness into bowls!

Enjoy each spoonful of warmth, and don’t be surprised if it becomes a new family favorite! The combination of flavors just gets better with time, so you might even find it tastes even better the next day.

Nutritional Information

When it comes to comfort food like *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup*, it’s nice to know the nutritional perks packed into each bowl! Here’s the estimated nutritional breakdown per serving (1 cup):

Calories: 250
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 2g
Unsaturated Fat: 3g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 30mg
Sodium: 800mg
Carbohydrates: 35g
Fiber: 10g
Protein: 15g
Sugar: 1g

These values can vary depending on your specific ingredients, but this hearty soup offers a wholesome balance of protein, fiber, and flavor that makes it a perfect choice for a nourishing meal.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Hearty and Filling: This soup is packed with protein and fiber, making it incredibly satisfying and perfect for a cozy meal.
Comforting Warmth: There’s nothing like a steaming bowl of ham and bean soup to chase away the chill on a cold day.
Easy to Make: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks.
Versatile: Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices—it’s a great way to use up what you have on hand!
Leftover Friendly: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for meal prep or using up leftover ham.

Tips for Success

To ensure your *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup* turns out perfectly every time, here are some pro tips! First, be sure to soak your beans overnight; this not only softens them but also helps them cook evenly. If you’re short on time, a quick soak method—boiling them for an hour and letting them sit—works too! Also, don’t rush the sautéing step; allowing the vegetables to become soft and fragrant builds a deeper flavor. Finally, taste and adjust seasoning at the end; every ham is different, and you want that balance just right. These little touches will elevate your soup to comforting perfection!

Variations

While my *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup* is delightful as is, there are plenty of fun variations to keep things exciting! For a twist, try using different beans like black beans or pinto beans for a change in flavor and texture. You can also spice things up with a pinch of cayenne pepper or smoked paprika for a bit of heat. If you want to sneak in more veggies, consider adding diced potatoes, spinach, or even corn for some extra sweetness. Each variation brings its own unique charm, making this soup a versatile canvas for your culinary creativity!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup* properly ensures you can enjoy those delicious leftovers later! Once cooled, transfer the soup to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, freeze it in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave some space for expansion when freezing!

When it’s time to reheat, thaw the soup overnight in the fridge if frozen. You can gently warm it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If you’re in a hurry, a microwave works too—just be sure to cover your bowl to avoid splatters!

FAQ Section

Got questions about making the perfect *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup*? I’ve got you covered! Here are some common queries I hear:

Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Absolutely! If you’re short on time, you can substitute canned beans. Just rinse and drain them, and add them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
What can I use instead of ham? If you’re looking for a vegetarian option, you can use smoked paprika and a dash of liquid smoke to mimic that ham flavor. Alternatively, try using turkey or chicken for a lighter version!
Can I add more vegetables? Of course! Feel free to toss in your favorite veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or even kale for some extra nutrition and flavor.
How do I thicken the soup? If you prefer a thicker consistency, simply mash a few beans against the pot’s side with a fork or blend a cup of the soup and stir it back in.
Is this soup freezer-friendly? Yes! This *Comfort Food Ham and Bean Soup* freezes beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option. Just be sure to cool it completely before freezing.