Louisiana Hayride Bean Soup
A hearty Louisiana bean soup featuring tender Great Northern beans, smoky ham, and flavorful spices, perfect for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse and soak the Great Northern beans overnight or use the quick soak method.
- In a large pot, sauté chopped onion and celery until tender.
- Add ham cubes to the pot and cook until lightly browned.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot.
- Pour in enough water or broth to cover the beans and ingredients.
- Stir in catsup or picante sauce, garlic powder or flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 1-2 hours until beans are tender and flavors meld.
- Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For an even richer flavor, consider adding smoked paprika or a bay leaf while simmering. If you don't have Great Northern beans, navy beans can be a good substitute. For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth and omit the ham, adding mushrooms for a meaty texture. Adjust the level of catsup or picante sauce to suit your taste, as this can change the soup's spiciness and sweetness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Louisiana Hayride Bean Soup with a crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of green onions on top can add a nice touch. This soup pairs beautifully with Dee'S Baked Beans for a comforting meal that highlights American recipes. You might also enjoy it alongside a fresh green salad for a balanced dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors of the soup continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if it becomes too thick. You can also microwave individual portions until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Louisiana Hayride Bean Soup contains roughly 524 calories, with 10g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 24g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1932mg per serving (84% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned Great Northern beans to save time. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot in the last 20-30 minutes of cooking. This way, they will heat through without becoming mushy.
How can I thicken my bean soup?
If you prefer a thicker consistency, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon or blend a portion of the soup in a blender and return it to the pot. Alternatively, add a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with water during the last few minutes of cooking to thicken the soup.
Is this soup suitable for freezing?
Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm on the stove or in the microwave.
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).