Friendship Bean Soup
A hearty bean soup with smoked ham, tomatoes, and lemon juice, offering comforting flavors perfect for family dinners and satisfying vegetarian options when ham is omitted.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the beans in water overnight.
- Drain the beans in the morning.
- Add 2 quarts of cold water to the beans and season with salt.
- Add the ham, cut into small cubes.
- Simmer the mixture for 2 hours.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Ro-Tel tomatoes with jalapeno peppers, and lemon juice.
- Simmer for an additional 2 hours.
- Serve the soup with cornbread or jalapeno cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery when simmering the beans. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that depth of flavor. You can also use canned beans for a quicker preparation, but adjust cooking times accordingly. Always taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This soup is best served hot with a side of cornbread or jalapeno cornbread, which complements its flavors beautifully. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or avocado for added freshness. For a complete meal, consider pairing it with a simple salad or the delicious Georgia Cornbread Salad for a delightful contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Friendship Bean Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if it thickens too much. You can also reheat in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Friendship Bean Soup contains roughly 449 calories, with 12g protein, 72g carbohydrates, and 15g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (41% of the Daily Value) and protein (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2146mg per serving (93% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat in this soup?
Absolutely! If you don't have ham, you can substitute it with smoked turkey, sausage, or even bacon for a different flavor profile. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the meat used.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To increase the heat, you can add extra jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce. If you like it really spicy, consider including some crushed red pepper flakes or using a spicier variety of tomatoes. Adjust according to your heat preference.
Can I freeze the soup?
Yes, Friendship Bean Soup freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating. Just be aware that the texture may change slightly after freezing.
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).