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.
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow this detailed guide for perfect soup every time. Start by soaking your dried beans overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water; this is crucial for even cooking. The next day, in a large Dutch oven or stockpot, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 8-10 minutes until soft. Add the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Add the ham bone or diced ham to the pot to let it sear slightly with the vegetables. Pour in the 6 cups of chicken broth, ensuring it covers the ingredients. Add the drained beans, bay leaves, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then immediately reduce to a gentle simmer. Cover partially and let it cook for 90 minutes, stirring occasionally. The soup is ready when the beans are creamy and tender.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a meal on its own but is elevated with the right accompaniments. Serve it in deep bowls garnished with a generous sprinkle of fresh parsley. A side of warm, crusty bread or buttery cornbread is perfect for dipping. For a fresh contrast, add a simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette. A dollop of pesto or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil on top just before serving adds a wonderful depth of flavor.
How-to Summary
In brief: Soak dried beans overnight. Sauté onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Add ham, broth, beans, and herbs. Simmer for 1.5-2 hours until beans are tender. Season to taste, garnish, and serve.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely. After sautéing the vegetables, add all ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours.
What if I don’t have a ham bone? Two cups of diced ham works perfectly. For a smokier flavor, add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the vegetables while sautéing.
How can I thicken the soup? For a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to partially puree some of the beans right in the pot.
How long does it keep? Stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, the soup will keep for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve the next day.
Can I freeze this soup? Yes, it freezes very well for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results: First, do not add salt at the beginning if using a ham bone, as it can become too salty as it reduces; season at the end. Second, do not boil the soup vigorously after adding the beans, as a hard boil can cause them to break apart. A gentle simmer is key. Finally, do not skip sautéing the vegetables, as this step builds the foundational flavor of the soup.
Conclusion
This White Bean and Ham Soup is the epitome of comforting, homemade cooking. It transforms simple, economical ingredients into a nourishing and deeply flavorful meal that is perfect for any day of the week. By following the steps and tips provided, you can master this classic recipe. It’s a forgiving dish that welcomes your own personal touch, promising a delicious and satisfying result every time. Enjoy the process and the wonderful meal that follows.