Mrs. Claus' Christmas Soup
A hearty, comforting bean and vegetable soup infused with smoky ham, perfect for cozy winter gatherings and family dinners with rich flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and soak the mixed beans overnight.
- Drain off the water and place the beans in a soup pot.
- Add cold water, chopped carrots, chopped celery, chopped onions, black pepper, bay leaf, and ham bone to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low and simmer for 4 to 5 hours or all day, until the beans are tender.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced tomatoes or fresh herbs like thyme or parsley. If you don't have a ham bone, smoked turkey wings or a smoked sausage can work as excellent substitutes. Ensure the beans are fully soaked overnight to guarantee even cooking. You can also add some diced potatoes for extra heartiness, similar to those found in Ham-Potato-Corn Chowder.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Mrs. Claus' Christmas Soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A light salad, such as Seven Layer Untossed Salad, pairs wonderfully to balance the richness of the soup. Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mrs. Claus' Christmas Soup contains roughly 856 calories, with 28g protein, 186g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (333% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (231% of the Daily Value), and iron (154% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 461mg per serving (20% 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 canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the soaking step and reduce the cooking time. Add the drained and rinsed beans during the last 30 minutes of simmering to heat them through and absorb the flavors of the soup.
What if I don't have a ham bone?
If you don't have a ham bone, you can substitute it with smoked sausage or turkey legs for a similar smoky flavor. For a vegetarian version, omit the meat entirely and add extra vegetables or a splash of liquid smoke for depth.
How can I make this soup spicier?
To add heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce while it simmers. You can also stir in some crushed red pepper flakes to taste. Adjust the spice level according to your preference for a warm kick.
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).