Old Fashioned Bean Soup(In Memory Of My Dad, Glen Martin)
A hearty, comforting bean soup with smoky ham flavor, perfect for chilly days and family gatherings, offering rich taste and nourishing warmth.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Put all ingredients in a crock pot, cover.
- Cook on high for 5-6 hours.
- Cook on low for 10-12 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider adding diced carrots or potatoes to the soup. If you don't have navy beans, pinto or great northern beans can be used as substitutes. For extra depth, try sautéing the onion and garlic before adding them to the crock pot. Remember that the longer the soup simmers, the more the flavors meld together, making it even better the next day.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bean soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or additional celery leaves for a pop of color. It pairs beautifully with cornbread or a simple green salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Southern Barbecue Ribs or Top Hat Pork Chops to complement the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. It can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Fashioned Bean Soup(In Memory Of My Dad, Glen Martin) contains roughly 274 calories, with 7g protein, 36g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (105% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 616mg per serving (27% 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 option. If using canned navy beans, reduce the cooking time to about 2-3 hours on low. Rinse and drain the beans before adding them to the crock pot to ensure a smooth texture.
What can I do if the soup is too thick?
If your bean soup turns out too thick, simply add a little water or broth until you reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it cook on low for a bit longer to allow the flavors to combine.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of this bean soup, omit the ham bone and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a smoky flavor without meat.
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).