Easy German Bean Soup
A hearty and flavorful German Bean Soup featuring ham, green beans, navy beans, and potatoes, perfect for comforting meals and loved by those who enjoy savory, bean-filled dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large Dutch oven, combine ham, ham bone, green beans with liquid, and chopped onion.
- Add enough water to cover the ingredients.
- Bring to a boil and simmer for 1 hour.
- Add navy beans and cook while preparing potatoes.
- Add diced potatoes and simmer for an additional 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or smoked paprika while simmering. If you're out of green beans, frozen ones can be a quick substitute. You can also use any leftover meats, such as those from Southern Smothered Meat, for added depth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste, especially if using canned beans which may be salted.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley for added flavor. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. For a hearty option, consider serving it alongside a slice of Perfect Quiche Lorraine. This dish also works well as a filling lunch the next day.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much. You can also microwave individual portions.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Easy German Bean Soup contains roughly 387 calories, with 16g protein, 61g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (78% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (32% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 516mg per serving (22% 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 beans?
Yes, you can use dried navy beans. Soak them overnight and cook them separately until tender before adding them to the soup. Adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dried beans take longer to soften than canned beans.
What can I add for extra vegetables?
You can incorporate carrots, celery, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them small and add them in with the onion at the beginning of the cooking process. This will enhance the soup's texture and make it heartier.
Is this soup freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and warm on the stove or microwave.
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).