Quick Butter Bean Soup
A quick, hearty butter bean soup with tomatoes, ham, and a touch of sweetness, perfect for a comforting meal that suits busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine stewed tomatoes, butter beans, chopped ham, sugar, salt, and pepper in a pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, sauté onion bits in olive oil before adding to the pot. If you don’t have butter beans, any canned white beans can work as a substitute. For a vegetarian option, omit any meat and add more vegetables like carrots or celery. If desired, add a splash of vinegar for brightness or some herbs like thyme to enhance the soup's taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs or a drizzle of olive oil. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it alongside Baked Chicken With Rice And Corn Dressing to create a satisfying dinner spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens. Alternatively, you can microwave it in a covered bowl, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Quick Butter Bean Soup contains roughly 119 calories, with 3g protein, 28g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (71% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. It also contributes 5g 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 use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes; just chop and cook them down until soft. You'll need about 2-3 medium tomatoes to replace one can of stewed tomatoes. Adjust cooking time as necessary to allow the flavors to develop.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too watery?
If your soup is too thin, you can mash some of the butter beans against the side of the pot to create a creamier texture. Alternatively, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot for a thicker consistency.
What other spices can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to experiment with spices such as smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder for added depth. Fresh or dried herbs like basil or oregano can also complement the flavors nicely, depending on your preference.
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).