Ham-Bean Soup
Ham-Bean Soup is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of ham and tender navy beans with a medley of aromatic vegetables. Perfect for chilly days, this soup is a nourishing meal that suits families and gatherings alike, bringing warmth and satisfaction to the table.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients, except navy beans, and simmer for 2 hours.
- Add cooked navy beans.
- Ham pieces may be added.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, use homemade ham broth if possible. If navy beans are unavailable, great northern or pinto beans can be substituted. Adjust the Season-All salt to your taste, especially if your ham is salty. Adding a bay leaf during simmering can enhance the soup's depth. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the ham-bean soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider a side salad or a serving of Okra Soup to complement the flavors. This dish also makes for excellent leftovers, as the flavors deepen over time.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover ham-bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. If it thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency. Freezing is also an option; just ensure it's in a freezer-safe container.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham-Bean Soup contains roughly 456 calories, with 8g protein, 55g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is a good source of protein (17% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (16% of the Daily Value), and iron (13% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1123mg per serving (49% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried navy beans instead of cooked?
Yes, you can use dried navy beans. Just soak them overnight and cook them until tender before adding them to the soup. This will require additional cooking time for the soup, so be prepared to simmer longer until the flavors meld beautifully.
What kind of ham should I use?
Any cooked ham works well, but smoked ham adds a nice depth of flavor. You can use leftover ham from a holiday meal or purchase ham hocks for a more traditional touch. Just ensure the ham is fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
Can I add other vegetables to the soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to get creative by adding vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or bell peppers. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary, so add them according to how long they take to become tender.
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).