There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup to wrap you in comfort, and my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* does just that! Imagine walking into your kitchen on a chilly day, the rich aroma of simmering ham and hearty beans greeting you like a cozy hug. This soup isn’t just a dish; it’s a tradition that’s been passed down in my family. I remember watching my grandmother stir her pot, the steam dancing up toward her smiling face as she shared stories of her childhood. Every spoonful is packed with flavor, thanks to the tender ham and creamy navy beans, making it an instant favorite at family gatherings. Trust me, once you try this recipe, you’ll find yourself making it again and again, especially when you need a little extra love in a bowl. So, let’s dive into this delicious homemade comfort that warms both the belly and the soul!

Ingredients List

1 pound diced ham
1 cup dried navy beans, soaked overnight
1 chopped onion
2 sliced carrots
2 chopped celery stalks
4 cups chicken broth
2 minced cloves of garlic
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

These simple, hearty ingredients come together to create a truly comforting bowl of soup that you’ll love. Don’t shy away from using leftover ham; it adds an extra depth of flavor that makes this dish even more special. Happy cooking!

How to Prepare Classic Ham and Bean Soup

Making my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* is a delightful journey that fills your kitchen with warmth and delicious aromas. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started! First, make sure your dried navy beans have soaked overnight. This step is essential; it helps them cook evenly and become tender in the soup. Trust me, you’ll be glad you did!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Begin by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil if you like, but honestly, the ham will render some fat, so it’s not necessary. Toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté these veggies until they’re soft and fragrant – about 5 to 7 minutes. This mix is known as the “holy trinity” of soup-making, and it really sets the stage for all the flavors to come!

Next, add the minced garlic and stir for another minute. You want to avoid burning it because that can turn your soup bitter. Now, here comes the fun part—mix in the diced ham. Let it hang out in the pot for about 3 to 4 minutes, letting those flavors mingle and intensify.

Once you’re satisfied with the ham’s warmth, it’s time to add the soaked beans (drained, of course!), the chicken broth, and the bay leaf. Give everything a good stir and bring it to a hearty boil. When it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. This is where the magic happens! Let it cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll want to keep an eye on it and stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot.

Before serving, don’t forget to fish out that bay leaf! It’s not meant to be eaten, just a flavor enhancer. Your soup will look inviting, smell heavenly, and taste even better. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Nutritional Information

Keep in mind that nutritional values can vary based on the specific ingredients and brands you use, so this information is a general guideline rather than precise. For each serving of my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup*, you can expect approximately:

Calories: 300
Fat: 10g
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 40g
Sugar: 2g
Fiber: 10g
Sodium: 800mg
Cholesterol: 50mg

This hearty soup not only warms your soul but also offers a good balance of nutrients, making it a satisfying meal option any day of the week!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just a little chopping and sautéing, you can have this soup simmering in no time!
Hearty Flavors: The combination of ham and beans creates a rich, savory taste that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Healthy Comfort: Packed with protein and fiber, my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* is a nutritious choice that feels indulgent.
Versatile Leftovers: This soup tastes even better the next day and freezes beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep!
Family Tradition: Every bowl is a warm reminder of home and family gatherings, bringing a sense of nostalgia to your table.

Tips for Success

To truly make my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* shine, here are a few pro tips that’ll elevate your dish! First off, don’t skip the overnight soaking of the beans; it’s essential for their tenderness. If you’re in a pinch, you can also use canned beans—just rinse them well and add them towards the end of cooking.

For an extra flavor boost, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving; it brightens everything up beautifully! And if you like a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick. Lastly, always taste and adjust your seasonings; every ham has its own saltiness, so go easy on the salt until the end. Happy cooking!

Variations

One of the best things about my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* is how adaptable it is! If you’re feeling adventurous, switch up the beans! Pinto or black beans can add a different flavor profile, while lentils cook quicker and provide a lovely texture. You can also toss in some diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added heartiness. For those who love a little spice, try adding smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper to bring some heat. And don’t forget about herbs—fresh thyme or parsley can brighten up the dish beautifully. Mix and match to find your perfect combination!

Serving Suggestions

To truly enhance your meal experience with my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup*, consider pairing it with some warm, crusty bread. A thick slice of homemade cornbread or a buttery baguette is perfect for dipping and soaking up every delicious drop of soup. If you’re in the mood for something lighter, a fresh garden salad drizzled with a tangy vinaigrette adds a lovely contrast to the hearty flavors. And for a cozy touch, why not whip up a batch of homemade biscuits? They’re perfect for mopping up the rich broth. Enjoy your comforting bowl with these delightful sides, and watch your family gather around the table!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Storing your *Classic Ham and Bean Soup* is super easy! Once it’s cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into airtight containers. It’ll keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to leave a little space in the container for expansion as it freezes.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight, then reheat it on the stovetop over medium heat. Stir occasionally until it’s heated through. If it’s too thick after thawing, just add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up. Enjoy your comforting soup again!

FAQ Section

Q1. Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?
Absolutely! While navy beans are traditional for my *Classic Ham and Bean Soup*, you can easily switch them out for pinto, black beans, or even lentils. Just remember that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of bean you choose.

Q2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add in some smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that delicious, smoky flavor that ham usually provides.

Q3. Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking the beans overnight helps them cook evenly and become tender. If you forget to soak them, you can use the quick soak method by boiling them for a few minutes and then letting them sit covered for an hour.

Q4. How do I store leftovers?
Let your soup cool down first, then transfer it to airtight containers. It’ll keep in the fridge for about three days or can be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

Q5. What should I serve with ham and bean soup?
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with homemade biscuits for a comforting, hearty meal!