Ham Soup
Hearty ham soup with smoky bacon, tender beans, and potatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or chilly evenings, offering rich flavors and satisfying warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry bacon until crisp, crumble and set aside.
- Add onion to 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings and cook until tender.
- Add beef shank, ham, water, and salt to the pot.
- Cover and simmer for 1 1/2 hours.
- Remove meat from shank, dice it, and return to the soup.
- Skim fat from the surface of the soup.
- Add beans, potatoes, and garlic, then simmer covered for 30 minutes.
- Add sliced sausage and crumbled bacon, then simmer for an additional 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while the soup simmers. If you don’t have white northern beans, cannellini or navy beans work as good substitutes. For a lighter version, you can use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon, and it will still add a nice smokiness to the dish.
Serving Suggestions
This ham soup is hearty on its own but pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For a complete meal, consider serving it alongside a light appetizer like Cheese And Ham Strata. A sprinkle of fresh parsley on top before serving adds a nice touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of water or broth to achieve your desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Soup contains roughly 240 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of protein (12% 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 leftover holiday ham for this recipe?
Absolutely! Leftover holiday ham is perfect for this soup. Just ensure to chop it into small pieces so it blends well with the other ingredients. The flavors will meld beautifully, making the soup even more delicious.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, skip the bacon and ham. Use vegetable broth instead of water and add more beans or vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture and flavor. You can also use smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness of bacon.
What type of potatoes work best in this soup?
Waxy potatoes like red or fingerling potatoes hold their shape well during cooking, while starchy potatoes like russets will break down and thicken the soup. For optimal texture, consider using a mix of both types to achieve a heartier soup.
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).