Ham-Bean Chowder
A hearty, comforting ham-bean chowder with smoky flavors, creamy texture, and tender beans, perfect for warming up and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and minced garlic in butter until translucent.
- Add water, navy beans, chicken bouillon cubes, and smoked ham hock; bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender, about 1.5 hours.
- Remove ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
- Just before serving, stir in shredded Cheddar cheese and diced celery.
- Season with freshly ground pepper to taste and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while simmering the chowder. If you don't have navy beans, great northern beans can be a suitable substitute. You can also use leftover diced ham instead of a ham hock for a quicker preparation. Adjust seasoning as needed, especially if your ham is particularly salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the chowder hot, garnished with additional shredded Cheddar cheese and fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a comforting twist, enjoy it alongside a serving of Chickumber Chowder, which complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the chowder. You can also microwave it in individual portions until heated through, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Bean Chowder contains roughly 817 calories, with 13g protein, 95g carbohydrates, and 44g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (27% of the Daily Value), protein (26% of the Daily Value), and iron (22% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1142mg per serving (50% 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 are perfect for this recipe. Be sure to soak them overnight or use the quick soak method before cooking. This ensures they cook evenly and become tender in the chowder.
How can I make this chowder thicker?
To thicken the chowder, you can mash some of the beans against the pot's side or blend a portion of the soup, then return it to the pot. Another option is to add a cornstarch slurry for a quick thickening effect.
What other ingredients can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced carrots or potatoes for extra heartiness. You can also include spices like smoked paprika or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. Experimenting with different herbs can also elevate the flavor profile.
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).