Senator Bean Soup
A hearty and comforting bean soup featuring navy beans and smoky ham hocks, perfect for warming up and suitable for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the navy beans well in cold water.
- Place the beans in a large pot with 4 quarts of hot water and the ham hocks.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 3 hours.
- After cooking for 3 hours, add braised onion to the soup.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, and continue simmering until flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor of your Senator Bean Soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery along with the braised onion. If you don't have ham hocks, a smoked turkey leg or even a bit of bacon can provide a similar depth of flavor. Ensure that the beans are soaked beforehand for a more tender texture. For a creamier soup, blend a portion of the beans before serving.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Senator Bean Soup with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. A side of Cheese Green Beans complements the soup well and adds a nutritious touch. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple salad dressed with Grandma Grant'S Salad Dressing. This soup also pairs beautifully with Baked Ham With Apples for a comforting dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Senator Bean Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the soup has thickened. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Senator Bean Soup contains roughly 332 calories, with 19g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (87% of the Daily Value), protein (38% of the Daily Value), and iron (31% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 538mg per serving (23% 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, using dried navy beans is recommended for this recipe. Soak them overnight in cold water or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour before cooking. This helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
What can I add for extra flavor?
For added depth, consider incorporating spices like thyme or bay leaves during the cooking process. Some people also enjoy adding a splash of vinegar or a bit of hot sauce before serving to brighten the flavors. Adjust the seasoning to your taste!
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can make a delicious vegetarian version by substituting the ham hocks with smoked paprika for flavor and using vegetable broth instead of water. Add more vegetables like carrots, celery, and garlic for a robust taste without the 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).