Old Fashion Bean Soup
A hearty old-fashioned bean soup with ham, vegetables, and tomatoes, perfect for comforting family meals and suitable for those craving a flavorful, nourishing dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the Great Northern beans in water overnight; drain.
- Place the ham with bone in a large 4-quart pot.
- Fill the pot halfway with water.
- Add soaked beans, cut-up tomatoes with juice, diced celery and onions, grated carrot, and parsley to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to an oven set at 300° to 325°F to cook for 5 to 6 hours or all day if desired.
- Stir occasionally during cooking.
- Add water if necessary to maintain desired consistency.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a bay leaf or thyme while cooking. If you prefer a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that depth. You can also use other beans like navy or pinto if Great Northern beans are unavailable. Make sure to soak the beans thoroughly to ensure even cooking and tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Old Fashion Bean Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A simple green salad pairs well to balance the flavors. For a comforting touch, consider topping with a dollop of sour cream or fresh herbs. This dish also makes a great side for other hearty meals, like Baked Beans.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze it in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to loosen the soup and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashion Bean Soup contains roughly 320 calories, with 12g protein, 48g carbohydrates, and 11g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (99% of the Daily Value), iron (56% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (45% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1004mg per serving (44% 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 for a quicker version of this soup. If using canned, skip the soaking step and add them directly to the pot during cooking. However, the texture and flavor may be slightly different compared to dried beans.
How can I thicken the bean soup?
To thicken the soup, you can mash a portion of the beans against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender for a few seconds. Alternatively, add a small amount of cornstarch mixed with water to achieve your desired consistency.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding diced garlic, a splash of Worcestershire sauce, or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also enhance the smoky flavor, making it a delightful twist on the traditional recipe.
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).