Description
White Bean and Ham Soup
Ingredients:
2 cups dried white beans (such as navy beans) or 3 cans of cooked white beans (drained)
1 large ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
1 medium onion, finely chopped
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups chicken broth
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Beans:
If using dried beans, rinse them and soak them overnight in water. Drain and set aside.
If using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic until softened.
3. Add the Ham:
Place the ham bone or diced ham into the pot. Stir to combine.
4. Simmer the Soup:
Add the soaked beans (or canned beans) to the pot along with chicken broth, bay leaves, and thyme. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
5. Adjust the Seasoning:
Remove the ham bone (if used) and shred any remaining meat back into the soup. Adjust salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve with crusty bread.