Lena'S Bean Soup
A hearty, smoky bean soup with ham and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings, offering rich flavors and satisfying texture.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine ham bone or scraps or bacon, beans, and Ro-Tel in a pot.
- Cook all ingredients together until the meat is well done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using a smoked ham hock instead of regular ham scraps or bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the meat with smoked paprika and add some diced vegetables like carrots and celery. This soup can be thickened using a potato masher to crush some beans, giving it a creamier texture. To enhance the spice, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Lena's Bean Soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A simple green salad or Nutty Broccoli Salad can complement the soup nicely, adding freshness to the plate. For an added touch, garnish each bowl with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving, and consider pairing it with Oven Eggs And Bacon for a complete breakfast experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual servings in a microwave-safe bowl, covered, for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Lena'S Bean Soup contains roughly 26 calories, with 3g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 1g fat.
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, you can use dried Great Northern beans. Soak them overnight and then cook them until tender before adding to the soup. This may require additional cooking time, so adjust accordingly.
Is this soup freezable?
Absolutely! This soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.
What can I add to make it spicier?
To add heat, incorporate diced jalapeños or a teaspoon of red pepper flakes during cooking. You can also serve with hot sauce on the side, allowing everyone to spice their bowl to taste.
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).