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–+ servings
Ham and Bean Soup

Savory Ham and Bean Soup for a Cozy Night In

This Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting dish made with a leftover ham bone, perfect for chilly nights.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Total Time 3 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Dishes
Cuisine: American
Calories: 300
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Soup Base
  • 1 bone Ham Bone Ensure it has some meat attached for added substance.
  • 1 pound Dried Navy Beans Rinse well before use; Great Northern beans are a suitable alternative.
  • 8 cups Water or Low-Sodium Chicken Broth Using broth enhances the flavor.
  • 1 large Yellow Onion, chopped Adds sweetness and depth.
  • 2 Carrots, chopped Contributes natural sweetness and color.
  • 2 Celery Stalks, chopped Provides a subtle savory note.
For Flavoring
  • 2 Bay Leaves Remove before serving.
  • 1 teaspoon Dried Thyme Enhances the soup's earthiness.
  • 1/2 teaspoon Black Pepper Adjust according to taste.
Optional Additions
  • 1 cup Shredded Ham Use any leftover carved ham or additional meat scraps from the bone.

Equipment

  • Large stockpot

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions for Hearty Ham and Bean Soup
  1. Soak the Dried Navy Beans in a large bowl filled with water for at least 8 hours or overnight. Drain and rinse thoroughly before use.
  2. In a large stockpot, combine the rinsed beans, leftover ham bone, 8 cups of water or low-sodium chicken broth, chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, then reduce to low. Cover partially and let it simmer for 2 to 3 hours.
  4. After simmering, carefully remove the ham bone and bay leaves. Shred any meat from the bone and return it to the pot.
  5. To thicken the soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot.
  6. Taste and adjust seasoning. Consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar if desired.

Nutrition

Serving: 1cupCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 20gFat: 5gSaturated Fat: 1.5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 0.5gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 30mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 800mgFiber: 10gSugar: 2gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 40mgIron: 3mg

Notes

Avoid adding salt until after tasting the broth. Feel free to adjust ingredients to make the soup your own.

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