Southern Ham And Bean Soup
Hearty Southern ham and bean soup combines smoky ham, tender navy beans, vegetables, and tomato sauce for a comforting and flavorful meal perfect for family gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Trim fat from ham hocks and parboil for 20 minutes. Discard the water.
- Wash and sort navy beans.
- Add beans to the ham hocks in a pot and fill halfway with water.
- Add diced carrots, large pieces of celery, chopped onions, pepper, salt to taste, tomato sauce, and cubed peeled potatoes.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer until beans and vegetables are tender, about 1 to 2 hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks instead of regular ones. If you don't have navy beans, great northern or pinto beans work well as substitutions. To reduce cooking time, soak the beans overnight or use canned beans, but add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking. For added depth, try stirring in a teaspoon of smoked paprika or a bay leaf.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Southern Ham And Bean Soup with freshly baked cornbread or crusty bread for a hearty meal. A side of sautéed greens or a simple salad can add freshness to the dish. This soup pairs beautifully with Pork Chops And Rice Dinner for a comforting family feast.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To freeze, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to maintain the desired consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Southern Ham And Bean Soup contains roughly 99 calories, with 2g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 4g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1174mg per serving (51% 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 to save time. If using canned beans, add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through without becoming mushy. Drain and rinse the beans before adding them to the pot.
How do I adjust the seasoning for different tastes?
Start with the recommended salt and pepper, then taste the soup before serving. You can always add more seasoning as needed. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce to individual servings.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your soup turns out too thick, simply add a little water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and let it simmer for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld again.
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).