Crock-Pot Bean Soup("Nine Bean Soup")
A hearty and flavorful bean soup with ham, tomatoes, and aromatic vegetables, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings, with rich, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse 2 cups of Nine Bean Soup Mix.
- Place beans in the slow cooker and cover with water 2 inches above the beans. Soak overnight.
- Drain the beans and add the water, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, and chopped tomatoes to the slow cooker.
- Cook on high for 1 hour.
- Reduce to low and cook for 6 hours or until beans are tender.
- Add remaining ingredients and cook on low for 1 hour.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a bay leaf during cooking. If you don't have ham, diced bacon or smoked sausage can be great substitutes. Soaking the beans overnight is crucial for even cooking, but if you're short on time, a quick soak method can be used by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them sit for 1 hour. Adjust the salt based on your taste and the saltiness of the ham.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a twist, serve it alongside a Tomato Onion Quiche for a delightful brunch option. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream. It's also a perfect dish for potlucks and gatherings, as it serves a crowd easily.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container, where it can last for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Crock-Pot Bean Soup("Nine Bean Soup") contains roughly 344 calories, with 8g protein, 45g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (75% of the Daily Value) and vitamin A (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1497mg per serving (65% 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 a bean mix?
Yes, you can use any dried beans you prefer. However, you'll need to adjust the soaking and cooking times based on the type of beans you select. Make sure to soak them overnight or use the quick soak method to ensure they cook evenly.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ham and replace it with vegetable broth for added flavor. You can also enhance the soup with additional vegetables like carrots or celery, or add some smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Can I add other ingredients to the soup?
Definitely! Feel free to customize the soup by adding vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, or even leafy greens like spinach. You could also add spices like cumin or chili powder for an extra kick, depending on your taste preferences.
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).