3 Bean Soup
A hearty three-bean soup with smoky ham, flavorful vegetables, and tender chicken or ham pieces, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings. Rich and satisfying.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all beans, water, chopped onion, chopped bell pepper, minced garlic, bay leaf, and smoked ham hock in a large pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
- Add chopped chicken breast or ham pieces or both to the soup.
- Continue to simmer for an additional 30 to 40 minutes until the meat is cooked and tender.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding spices such as cumin or smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the smoked ham hock with a few drops of liquid smoke for depth. You can also replace Great Northern beans with navy beans or cannellini beans for similar texture. For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup with crusty bread or over a bed of rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a side salad for added freshness. For a delightful twist, consider serving it alongside Buttermilk Crunch Chicken for a comforting dinner experience. Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley for an extra burst of flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of 3 Bean Soup contains roughly 867 calories, with 38g protein, 146g carbohydrates, and 18g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (331% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (135% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (118% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2596mg per serving (113% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use dried beans. Soak them overnight and adjust cooking times. Add them to the pot at the beginning with the water, ensuring they are fully cooked before adding any meat.
Can I make this soup spicy?
Absolutely! If you enjoy heat, consider adding diced jalapenos or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also use spicy sausage instead of ham for a kick.
What can I serve this soup with?
This 3 Bean Soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate the meal by serving it with cornbread or a side of Veg-All Supreme for a complete dinner. A dollop of sour cream or shredded cheese on top adds creaminess.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).