Navy Beans Or Soup
Hearty navy bean soup with smoked ham, tomatoes, and onions offers rich flavors perfect for comforting meals and serves well for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse and sort the beans in a large pot.
- Add 6 to 8 cups hot water to 1 pound of beans, bring to a rapid boil, and boil for 2 minutes.
- Remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour.
- Drain soak water from beans, rinse, and drain again.
- Add the soaked beans, smoked ham hock or shanks, diced tomatoes with juice, dried onion flakes, hot water, salt, and pepper to a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until beans are tender and flavors meld, about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider pureeing a portion of the beans before serving. If you don’t have smoked ham hock, a smoked turkey leg or bacon can work as substitutes. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can enhance the flavor. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the meat and use vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the navy bean soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with a fresh Spinach And Pecan Salad for a balanced dinner. You can also top it with chopped green onions or a dollop of sour cream for added flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out and warm on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. This dish also freezes well for up to 3 months.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Navy Beans Or Soup contains roughly 53 calories, with 3g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 650mg per serving (28% 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 dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker preparation. Use about 4 cans of drained and rinsed beans, and skip the soaking and boiling steps. Simply add them to the pot with the other ingredients and simmer until heated through.
How can I adjust the seasoning in this recipe?
Adjust the seasoning to your taste by adding more salt, pepper, or even spices like paprika or cayenne for heat. Remember to taste as you go to achieve your desired flavor profile.
What should I do if the beans aren't tender after cooking?
If the beans aren't tender after simmering, continue cooking them and check every 15 minutes. If needed, add more liquid to prevent sticking. Beans can vary in cooking times based on age and type.
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).