Washday Soup
Hearty and comforting Washday Soup combines navy beans, ham, and vegetables, offering warm, savory flavors perfect for family meals and cozy afternoons.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak navy beans in salted water overnight.
- In the morning, put the soaked beans in a large pot and bring to a boil with ham or bacon.
- Reduce heat to low and let simmer, checking in between laundry loads.
- Add the finely minced onion before hanging out the laundry.
- At around 9 o'clock, add 1/2 cup of coffee to the beans.
- Add minced carrots around 11 o'clock, during bleach time.
- Serve the soup at noon with soda crackers or cornbread and slaw.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using smoked ham or bacon, which will add a rich depth to the soup. If you're short on time, canned navy beans can be a quick substitute; just reduce the cooking time. Adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves can elevate the dish further. For those looking to incorporate more vegetables, feel free to add diced celery or bell peppers.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Washday Soup with a side of soda crackers or cornbread for a comforting meal. A fresh slaw can add a crunchy contrast. This soup also pairs beautifully with Maw Maw's Baked Beans for a heartier spread. For additional flavor, sprinkle some fresh herbs on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Washday Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To freeze, portion the soup into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving space for expansion. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Washday Soup contains roughly 133 calories, with 4g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of dietary fiber (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 546mg per serving (24% 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 other types of beans for this soup?
Yes, while navy beans are traditional, you can substitute with pinto or great northern beans if you prefer. Just be mindful that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of beans used. Ensure they are cooked until tender for the best texture.
Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Soaking the beans helps to reduce cooking time and makes them easier to digest. If you're short on time, you can use the quick-soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for one hour before cooking. This will ensure they cook evenly.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham or bacon and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can also add additional vegetables or even some smoked paprika to give a smoky flavor 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).