Grace Church 12-Bean Soup
A hearty 12-bean soup with smoky ham, tomatoes, and spices, perfect for comforting family meals and gatherings, offering rich flavors and nourishing goodness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash beans and barley.
- Place in a large kettle; cover with water to 2 inches above beans.
- Add salt if desired.
- Soak overnight; drain in the morning.
- Add 2 quarts water and ham bone or hock. Bring to a boil; simmer slowly for 3 hours, stirring occasionally.
- Remove ham bone or hock.
- Remove meat from the bone; chop and return to the soup.
- Add chopped onion, canned tomatoes, chili powder, lemon juice, sugar, salt, and pepper.
- Simmer slowly for 1 or more hours.
- Serve with a tossed salad and cornbread or crusty French bread.
Tips & Substitutions
For a hearty flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne pepper alongside the chili powder. If you don't have a ham bone, diced ham or turkey can be great substitutes. Additionally, using vegetable broth instead of water can enhance the soup's richness. If you enjoy a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This 12-bean soup is perfect served with a fresh tossed salad and a side of cornbread or crusty French bread. For a complete meal, pair it with Jansen Farm Chops for a protein boost. You can also top the soup with freshly chopped herbs or a dollop of sour cream to add a creamy texture.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply place it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it has thickened. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grace Church 12-Bean Soup contains roughly 89 calories, with 3g protein, 14g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (25% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 743mg per serving (32% 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?
Yes, dried beans work perfectly. Just remember to soak them overnight and adjust cooking times accordingly. This will help them cook evenly and absorb the flavors of the soup. A mix of different beans adds great texture and flavor.
What can I substitute for the ham bone?
You can use diced ham, smoked turkey, or even a vegetarian option like tempeh for a meaty flavor. If you're avoiding meat entirely, consider adding a bit of liquid smoke to mimic the smokiness traditionally provided by the ham bone.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add extra vegetables like carrots, celery, or even okra to enhance the flavor and nutrition of the soup. Season with herbs like thyme or bay leaf for added depth.
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).