Description
Hearty Bean and Ham Soup
An old-fashioned favorite, this soup is brimming with homestyle flavors!
Ingredients:
2 cups dried pinto beans, soaked
2 cups diced ham hock meat
1 large onion, diced
2 garlic cloves, minced
8 cups water or stock
1 tsp rosemary
1 potato, cubed
Salt to taste
Instructions:
Place beans and stock in a pot, bring to a boil.
Add ham, onion, garlic, rosemary, and potato.
Simmer for 1.5–2 hours until beans are soft.
Serve hot and enjoy!
#ClassicBeanSoup
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for perfect results every time. First, ensure your dried pinto beans are properly soaked overnight in cold water, or use a quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them stand for an hour, then draining. In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked and drained beans with 8 cups of water or stock. Bring this to a rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the diced ham hock meat, diced onion, minced garlic, rosemary, and cubed potato. Partially cover the pot, allowing a small gap for steam to escape. Maintain a low simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally. The soup is ready when the beans are completely tender and the potato has begun to break down slightly, thickening the broth. Finally, season with salt to taste, being cautious as the ham may already be salty.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty soup is a complete meal in a bowl but can be elevated with simple sides. Serve it piping hot in deep bowls alongside crusty bread, cornbread, or buttermilk biscuits for dipping. For a fresh contrast, top individual servings with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley, a dollop of sour cream, or a dash of hot sauce. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the soup’s richness perfectly.
How-to Summary
To summarize: Soak beans overnight. Combine beans and liquid in a pot and bring to a boil. Add all remaining ingredients (ham, onion, garlic, rosemary, potato). Simmer gently for 1.5-2 hours until beans are tender. Season with salt and serve hot.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Yes, you can substitute 3-4 cans of drained and rinsed pinto beans. Add them in the last 30 minutes of simmering to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What can I use if I don’t have a ham hock? Two cups of diced ham steak, leftover holiday ham, or even smoked turkey legs are excellent alternatives. For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable stock, adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika for depth.
How should I store and reheat leftovers? Store cooled soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup will thicken; simply thin it with a little water or stock when reheating on the stovetop over medium heat.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely. Add all ingredients (except salt) to the slow cooker. Cook on LOW for 7-8 hours or on HIGH for 4-5 hours, until beans are tender. Season with salt before serving.
Why is my soup still watery after cooking? If the beans are tender but the broth is too thin, use a potato masher to lightly mash some of the beans and potato against the side of the pot. This will release starch and naturally thicken the soup.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best soup: First, do not add salt at the beginning of cooking, as it can toughen the bean skins. Always salt at the end. Second, ensure the soup is at a true simmer, not a vigorous boil, to prevent the beans from breaking apart. Third, do not skip soaking the dried beans, as this reduces cooking time and makes them easier to digest. Finally, using plain water instead of a flavorful stock or broth can result in a bland soup; stock is highly recommended.
Conclusion
This Hearty Bean and Ham Soup is the epitome of comforting, homestyle cooking. It’s a forgiving and flexible recipe that yields a nourishing, flavorful meal with minimal effort. By following the step-by-step guide and tips provided, you can master this classic dish. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or for meal prepping, this soup is sure to become a cherished staple in your recipe collection. Enjoy the rich, savory results of your simple, wholesome ingredients.
