Capitol Hill Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting navy bean soup with ham, infused with herbs and vegetables, perfect for cold days and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add beans to boiling water.
- Return to boil and boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat.
- Cover and soak overnight in the refrigerator.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the beans before adding them back to the soup. If you don't have navy beans, great northern beans can be a suitable substitute. Feel free to enhance the flavor with a splash of vinegar or a dash of hot sauce. Additionally, you can use leftover ham from other dishes, such as Party Ham Balls, instead of a ham hock.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Capitol Hill Bean Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad, such as Hidden Valley Ranch Crunchy Pea Salad, for a balanced dinner. Consider garnishing with additional parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little water if it thickens too much. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to three months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Capitol Hill Bean Soup contains roughly 272 calories, with 8g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (43% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (35% of the Daily Value), and iron (34% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2071mg per serving (90% 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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian by omitting the ham hock and using vegetable broth instead of water. To enhance the flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the depth that the ham would provide.
How can I adjust the spice level?
To adjust the spice level, add crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños according to your taste. Start with a small amount and increase it gradually to avoid overwhelming the soup. This allows you to customize the heat to your preference.
What can I serve with this soup?
This hearty soup can be served on its own or accompanied by various sides. A fresh garden salad or a slice of hearty bread complements it well. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a side dish like Chef'S Salad-Stuffed Tomatoes.
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).