G S I Old-Fashioned Bean Soup
A hearty, comforting bean soup enriched with ham hocks, tomatoes, and savory seasonings, perfect for family dinners or cold days craving bold flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Drain beans which have been picked, washed, and soaked overnight.
- Refresh the beans with cold water and drain again.
- In a large pot, cook bacon fat over medium heat.
- Add chopped onions and celery, sauté until softened.
- Add ham hocks to the pot and cook briefly to release flavors.
- Pour in cold water (1 gallon plus 1 pint) and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer for about 1 hour or until beans are tender.
- Add cooked or canned tomatoes, dry mustard, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
- Continue simmering for another 30 minutes to meld flavors.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or some thyme during cooking. If you're out of bacon fat, olive oil works as a substitute, though it will alter the flavor slightly. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use a smoked paprika to achieve a similar depth. Soaking beans overnight is crucial for even cooking and digestibility.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this comforting bean soup with crusty bread for dipping or over a bed of rice for a filling meal. It pairs beautifully with a side of Broccoli-Bacon-Cheese Salad for a refreshing contrast. Garnish with fresh herbs or a dollop of sour cream for added richness and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 3 months, ensuring they are well-sealed to prevent freezer burn.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of G S I Old-Fashioned Bean Soup contains roughly 89 calories, with 3g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1092mg per serving (47% 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 canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the soaking and cooking steps, and simply add the drained beans to the pot after sautéing the vegetables. Adjust the cooking time to only 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce during cooking. If you prefer a smoky flavor, a bit of smoked paprika can enhance the soup without overwhelming it. Always taste as you go to achieve your desired spice level.
What can I substitute for ham hocks?
If you don't have ham hocks, diced smoked sausage or a ham bone can provide a similar flavor profile. For a vegetarian option, use liquid smoke or smoked salt to impart that characteristic taste without meat. Adjust seasonings to your preference as necessary.
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).