Mom'S Navy Bean Soup
A hearty navy bean soup with ham, tomatoes, and herbs, perfect for comforting family dinners and suitable for cold weather cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak dry navy beans overnight according to package directions.
- Drain and rinse the beans.
- Place the soaked beans in a large pot with 3 quarts of water.
- Add 1 or 2 ham butts or small pieces to the pot.
- Stir in the large can of crushed tomatoes.
- Add 1 tablespoon of onion powder, 2 tablespoons of parsley flakes, 1 tablespoon of salt, and 1/8 teaspoon of black pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until the beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For better flavor, try using a smoked ham hock instead of ham butts for a richer taste. If you’re short on time, canned navy beans can be used—just reduce the cooking time accordingly. Adding a bay leaf during simmering can enhance the depth of flavor. Feel free to substitute parsley with fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a different twist.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread or a side salad, such as Cabbage And Ham Salad, for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Barbecue Meats for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, cool the soup completely and transfer it to freezer-safe containers, where it can last up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water if it has thickened.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mom'S Navy Bean Soup contains roughly 564 calories, with 18g protein, 130g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (183% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (99% of the Daily Value), and potassium (52% of the Daily Value). It also contributes 28g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can make a delicious vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. Consider adding smoked paprika for a smoky flavor, and include vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture and nutrition.
How can I thicken the soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash some of the beans against the pot's sides with a spoon or fork. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup in a blender and stir it back in. Adding a few diced potatoes can also help achieve a thicker consistency.
What can I serve with Navy Bean Soup?
Navy Bean Soup is hearty on its own but pairs well with sides like cornbread or a fresh green salad. For a fulfilling meal, serve it alongside Twice Baked Potatoes (Grandchildren'S Favorite) or grilled cheese sandwiches for an appealing combination.
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).