How do you use that leftover ham from your holiday feast? Make this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe to use your ham leftovers in an entirely new dinner. This easy, healthy meal is perfect for a cold Winter day, providing warmth and comfort. You’ll find it suitable for family dinners, casual gatherings, or even meal prepping for the week ahead. The rich flavors of ham combined with nourishing beans create a satisfying dish that everyone will love.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is perfect for cooks of all skill levels.
Perfect for Leftovers: Transform leftover ham into a delicious soup, minimizing waste and maximizing flavor.
Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is both filling and nutritious—ideal for winter months.
Versatile Ingredients: Customize the soup by adding your favorite vegetables or spices based on what you have at home.
Freezes Well: Make a big batch and freeze portions for quick meals later—great for busy days!

Tools and Preparation

Before starting your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, gather the necessary tools to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Dutch oven
Cutting board
Sharp knife
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

Dutch oven: Ideal for slow-cooking soups, allowing flavors to meld beautifully while keeping the dish warm.
Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping vegetables, ensuring efficiency in preparation.
Sharp knife: Makes slicing through vegetables quick and easy, enhancing your overall cooking experience.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 Lb Dried Navy Beans
– 3 Tablespoons Oil
– 1 White Onion, (chopped)
– 4 Carrots, (chopped)
– 2 Celery Stalks, (sliced)
– 5 Garlic Cloves, (finely chopped)
– 64 ounces Chicken Stock
– 14.5 ounce Can Fire Roasted Diced Tomatoes
– 1 Bay Leaf
– 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder
– 1 teaspoon Dried Italian Herbs
– Fresh Cracked Pepper
– 2 Cups Shredded Green Cabbage
– 2-3 Cups Chopped Ham
– Salt – to taste (if needed)

How to Make Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Rinse dried beans under cold water.
Cover beans with several inches of water in a bowl. Soak overnight.
Rinse beans again before cooking.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over high heat.
Add chopped onion, carrots, and celery; sauté for 4–5 minutes until tender while stirring frequently.
Stir in finely chopped garlic and sauté for an additional 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Add soaked beans, chicken stock, fire-roasted diced tomatoes, bay leaf, garlic powder, Italian herbs, and fresh cracked pepper to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil; then reduce heat to simmer.
Cover the pot slightly ajar and let it cook for about 90 minutes. Check beans’ consistency; if they are still firm, continue cooking for another 30 minutes.

Step 4: Final Touches

Remove the lid from the pot and stir in chopped ham and shredded cabbage.
Cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through.
Taste before serving; add salt as needed based on the saltiness of the ham used. Discard bay leaf before serving.

Enjoy your hearty Ham and Bean Soup!

How to Serve Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Serving Ham and Bean Soup is about enhancing its rich flavors and comforting warmth. Here are some delightful serving suggestions that will elevate your dining experience.

Garnish Ideas

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top for a burst of color and flavor.
Lemon Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness to the soup.

Accompaniments

Crusty Bread: Serve with a side of warm, crusty bread for dipping and soaking up the delicious broth.
Cornbread: This sweet and savory bread pairs perfectly with ham and bean soup.

Add-ons

Hot Sauce: For those who enjoy a kick, add a few drops of your favorite hot sauce.
Grated Cheese: A sprinkle of sharp cheddar cheese can enhance the soup’s richness.

Salad Pairings

Green Salad: A simple green salad with vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and balances the flavors beautifully.

How to Perfect Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

To make your Ham and Bean Soup truly exceptional, consider these helpful tips.

Soak Your Beans: Soaking beans overnight ensures they cook evenly and become tender.
Use Quality Stock: Opt for a flavorful chicken stock as it greatly enhances the soup’s taste.
Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go; sometimes, the ham provides enough salt, so be cautious when adding more.
Cook Low and Slow: Allowing the soup to simmer gently brings out all the flavors, making it even more delicious.
Experiment with Spices: Feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs for a personalized touch.
Store Leftovers Properly: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Best Side Dishes for Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Ham and Bean Soup is hearty enough on its own, but pairing it with delicious sides can elevate your meal. Here are some fantastic options.

Garlic Bread: Perfect for dipping into the soup, garlic bread adds flavor and crunch.
Baked Potatoes: Fluffy baked potatoes make a satisfying side that complements the soup’s texture.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring additional nutrients and vibrant colors to your plate.
Stuffed Peppers: These can be filled with rice or quinoa, adding another layer of flavor to your meal.
Steamed Broccoli: Simple steamed broccoli provides a light, nutritious counterpoint to the rich soup.
Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad brings a refreshing element that contrasts nicely with warm soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making your Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, it’s easy to make a few common errors. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Skipping the Soaking Step: Not soaking the beans overnight can lead to longer cooking times and less tender beans. Always soak them to ensure they cook evenly.
Overcrowding the Pot: Adding too many ingredients at once can make it difficult for the soup to simmer properly. Stick to the recipe proportions for best results.
Neglecting Seasoning Adjustments: Failing to taste and adjust seasoning can result in bland soup. Always taste before serving and adjust as needed.
Ignoring Cooking Times: Not following the cook time for the beans can leave them undercooked or mushy. Keep an eye on them and test for doneness.
Using Fresh Ham Instead of Leftovers: This recipe shines with leftover ham! Using fresh ham alters the flavor profile significantly. Embrace those holiday leftovers!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
It lasts up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Oven: Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil until heated through, about 30 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have questions about this Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans. Just rinse them well and add them during the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.

How do I customize my Ham and Bean Soup Recipe?

Feel free to add other vegetables like spinach or potatoes. Different herbs can also enhance the flavor!

What type of ham works best?

Smoked or honey-baked ham adds great flavor. Using leftovers from your holiday feast is perfect!

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken stock for a delicious vegetarian version.

Final Thoughts

This Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is a comforting and versatile dish that makes great use of leftover ham. It’s perfect for chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying. Feel free to customize it with your favorite veggies or spices for a personal touch! Try it out today; you won’t be disappointed!

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Ham and Bean Soup

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Author: Tina
Total Time: 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: Approximately 6 servings 1x

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Description

Transform your holiday ham leftovers into a mouthwatering Ham and Bean Soup that’s perfect for chilly winter days. This hearty soup combines tender navy beans, flavorful ham, and a medley of vegetables, creating a comforting dish that brings warmth and satisfaction to your table. Ideal for family dinners or meal prep, this easy-to-make recipe ensures you minimize waste while maximizing flavor. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a nutritious option everyone will enjoy. Gather your ingredients and get ready to savor this deliciously cozy soup!

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb dried navy beans
3 tablespoons oil
1 white onion, chopped
4 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, sliced
5 garlic cloves, finely chopped
64 ounces chicken stock
14.5-ounce can fire-roasted diced tomatoes
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
Fresh cracked pepper
2 cups shredded green cabbage
2–3 cups chopped ham
Salt – to taste

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Instructions

Rinse beans under cold water and soak overnight in water.
In a Dutch oven, heat oil over high heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery for 4–5 minutes until tender. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
Stir in soaked beans, chicken stock, diced tomatoes, bay leaf, and seasonings. Bring to a boil and reduce to simmer for about 90 minutes.
Add chopped ham and cabbage; cook for an additional 15–20 minutes until heated through.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 120 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Simmering
Cuisine: American