Wintery Day Bean Soup(2 Quarts)
A hearty winter bean soup bursting with smoky ham, tender vegetables, and bold spices, perfect for cozy gatherings and comforting meals during cold days.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the mixed dried beans thoroughly.
- Place the beans in a large kettle.
- Cover the beans with water.
- Add salt and soak overnight.
- Drain the soaked beans.
- Add 2 quarts of water and the diced ham to the kettle.
- Simmer the mixture for 2 1/2 to 3 hours until beans are tender.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chili powder, chopped tomatoes, and lemon juice.
- Simmer the soup for an additional 45 minutes.
- Taste and add salt and pepper if desired before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier soup, consider adding diced carrots or celery alongside the onions. If you don't have mixed dried beans, you can substitute with any single variety, such as pinto or kidney beans. To enhance flavor, try adding a bay leaf during simmering. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the bean soup with crusty bread or over cooked rice for a filling meal. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can brighten the flavors. This soup also pairs beautifully with Lindsay'S Ham Roll-Ups for a complete winter meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover bean soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water to loosen the soup, and heat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until warmed through.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Wintery Day Bean Soup(2 Quarts) contains roughly 553 calories, with 19g protein, 112g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (106% of the Daily Value), potassium (40% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (39% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2518mg per serving (109% 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 for this recipe?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If you choose this option, skip the soaking and cooking time for the beans. Simply add drained and rinsed canned beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking to warm them through.
What can I add to make this soup spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You could also add a few dashes of hot sauce when serving to suit individual spice preferences.
Is there a way to thicken the soup if it's too watery?
If your soup ends up too thin, you can blend a portion of it with an immersion blender or mash some beans against the side of the pot. This will help thicken the soup while maintaining its texture. Alternatively, simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce excess liquid.
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).