Waterloo Farm Bean Soup
A hearty, flavorful bean soup featuring mixed dried beans, ham, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort and rinse the dried beans thoroughly.
- Place the beans, ham bone, water, chopped onion, and chicken bouillon in a large pot.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1.5 hours until beans are tender.
- Add chopped red sweet pepper, tomatoes, salt, pepper, and oregano to the soup.
- Continue cooking for another 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Stir in lemon juice before serving and adjust seasoning if needed.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery along with the onion. If you don't have a ham bone, smoked sausage or diced ham can be great substitutes. To easily sort the beans, spread them out on a clean surface and remove any debris. Soaking the beans overnight can also reduce cooking time, but is not necessary if you prefer a quicker method.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A side salad can add freshness and balance, while a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme before serving brightens the dish. This soup pairs beautifully with Ham Stuffed Chicken Breast for a delightful menu.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens. The flavors may deepen, making it even more delicious the next day.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Waterloo Farm Bean Soup contains roughly 179 calories, with 9g protein, 35g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (71% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (28% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1566mg per serving (68% 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 dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans for a quicker option. Drain and rinse the beans, and add them to the soup in the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through. This will save time while still delivering great flavor.
What other vegetables can I add to the soup?
Feel free to add vegetables like carrots, celery, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor. Just chop them into small pieces and add them with the red sweet pepper for a well-rounded soup.
Is this soup gluten-free?
Yes, this Waterloo Farm Bean Soup is naturally gluten-free, making it suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just ensure that any broth or bouillon used is also gluten-free to keep the dish safe for all dietary needs.
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).