French Market Soup(Southern Living Magazine)
French Market Soup offers a hearty, flavorful blend of ham and beans with a hint of citrus and spice, perfect for comforting gatherings. Its rich aroma and robust taste make it ideal for cold days or family dinners, showcasing Southern hospitality with a touch of French influence.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort and wash the soup mix; place in a Dutch oven.
- Cover with water 2 inches above the soup mix; let soak for 8 hours.
- To speed soaking, boil 2 quarts of water; add the bean mixture and boil for 3 minutes.
- Remove from heat; cover and let stand for 1 hour.
- Drain the soup mix and return it to the pan; add 2 quarts of water and the ham hock.
- Bring to a boil; cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Stir in the chopped tomatoes, onions, lemon juice, chili pepper, garlic, and salt.
- Bring to a boil; reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Remove the ham hock; extract the meat from the bone.
- Chop the meat and return it to the soup.
- Stir in salt and pepper to taste.
Tips & Substitutions
For a quicker version, consider using canned beans instead of the soup mix; just adjust the cooking time accordingly. You can also add leftover vegetables for added flavor and nutrition. If you prefer a spicier soup, add more chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce. This recipe is versatile enough to incorporate elements from other dishes, like using leftover ham from your favorite pork recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Lagniappe Red Beans And Rice for a flavorful Southern feast. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions for a pop of color and flavor just before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if needed to adjust consistency. This soup also freezes well; just portion it into freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of French Market Soup(Southern Living Magazine) contains roughly 147 calories, with 7g protein, 31g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (390% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (42% of the Daily Value), and potassium (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 565mg per serving (25% 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. Consider adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a depth of flavor that mimics the smoky taste of ham.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot and stir them back in. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. You could also add a cornstarch slurry for a quick thickening solution.
What can I serve with French Market Soup?
French Market Soup is delicious on its own, but you can enhance the meal with sides like cornbread, a simple coleslaw, or a side of pickled vegetables. For a more filling option, try pairing it with a hearty sandwich or even a light pasta dish.
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).