Good Luck Bean Soup
A hearty bean soup infused with smoky ham, tangy tomatoes, and bright lemon, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings with robust flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Add salt to the assorted beans and peas, cover with water, and soak overnight.
- Rinse the soaked beans and place them into 2 quarts of water.
- Add ham or ham hocks and chopped onion to the beans.
- Bring to a boil and cook slowly for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until beans are tender.
- Add canned tomatoes, dried red pepper, minced garlic, and lemon juice to the soup and simmer briefly before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks instead of regular ham. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika for depth. You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, to customize the texture and flavor. Don't forget to adjust the salt accordingly if using canned beans or broth, as they can be quite salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Good Luck Bean Soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal. It pairs beautifully with Cabbage Casserole Supreme for a hearty dinner. For extra flair, garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro. This soup is also great topped with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for added creaminess.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Good Luck Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to restore consistency, and heat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Luck Bean Soup contains roughly 136 calories, with 6g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (50% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 773mg per serving (34% 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
How can I make the soup spicier?
To add more heat to your Good Luck Bean Soup, consider adding extra dried red pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper during cooking. If you prefer a fresh kick, you can also incorporate diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce just before serving.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Just rinse and drain them, then add them to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Be sure to reduce the salt, as canned beans can be salty. This method will yield a quicker version of the dish without compromising too much on flavor.
What can I serve with this soup?
Good Luck Bean Soup is versatile and can be served with various sides. A simple green salad or cornbread complements it well. For something heartier, consider serving it alongside Ox Tails or a rich pasta dish like Pastor'S Pasta Salad for a satisfying meal.
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).