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Hearty Ham and Bean Soup Recipe (Perfect for Winter!)

Ham and Bean Soup

When the chill of winter settles in, there's nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of ham and bean soup. This hearty dish combines tender navy beans with savory ham and fresh vegetables, creating a symphony of flavors that warm both body and soul.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 2 hours
Total Time 2 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 8 servings
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: American
Calories: 250
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Ham and Bean Soup
  • 1 lb dried navy beans rinsed and sorted
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 medium carrots diced
  • 2 stalks celery diced
  • 1 leaf bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups cooked ham diced
  • Salt
  • Fresh parsley

Equipment

  • Large Pot or Dutch Oven
  • Wooden spoon or spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Colander
  • Lid for the Pot
  • Serving Bowl and Ladle

Method
 

  1. Step 1: Soak the dried navy beans in a large bowl of water overnight. Drain and rinse the beans before cooking.
  2. Step 2: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
  3. Step 3: Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until it becomes translucent. Stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and diced celery. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes.
  4. Step 4: Add the soaked beans, bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and chicken broth to the pot. Stir and bring it to a boil.
  5. Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
  6. Step 6: After the beans are tender, stir in the diced ham and cook for an additional 15-20 minutes.
  7. Step 7: Season with salt as needed and remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley.

Notes

For a creamier texture, consider using an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup before adding the ham.