Woodsman'S Soup
Woodsman's Soup is a hearty, comforting dish featuring canned ham and beans, seasoned with a blend of herbs and spices. Its robust flavors make it perfect for cold days or filling weeknight dinners, offering a satisfying and easy-to-make meal for the whole family.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan, combine all ingredients and heat to boiling, stirring occasionally.
- Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider using smoked ham or adding a dash of hot sauce to the soup. If you don't have precooked beans, you can substitute with canned beans rinsed and drained. Instant minced onion can be swapped with fresh onion, but remember to sauté it first for better flavor. This soup is versatile, so feel free to add vegetables like carrots or celery for extra nutrition.
Serving Suggestions
Woodsman's Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it pairs beautifully with a fresh Spinach And Mushroom Salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience. Consider serving it with a side of Tangy Brunch Sausages for a delightful contrast in flavors. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley can enhance presentation and taste.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm the soup on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also microwave individual portions for convenience, but be sure to cover it to avoid splatters.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Woodsman'S Soup contains roughly 52 calories, with 1g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (13% 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 meat in this soup?
Absolutely! While canned ham is traditional, you can substitute it with diced chicken, turkey, or even leftover roast pork for a different flavor profile. Just ensure the meat is fully cooked before adding it to the soup.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of water. Add more beans or lentils to maintain protein content and consider incorporating vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added texture.
How can I thicken the soup if it's too thin?
If you find the soup too thin for your liking, you can thicken it by mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot or adding a slurry of cornstarch and water. Another option is to let it simmer longer to reduce the liquid content.
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).