ham 16 bean soup recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best ham 16 bean soup recipe

I’ve been making this ham and 16 bean soup recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My family loves it, and it’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.

I like to serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles for a filling meal. The flavors are rich and comforting, with the smoky ham and beans creating a hearty broth that’s simply delicious. I’ve served this soup at family gatherings, potlucks, and even when I’m feeling under the weather – it’s always a crowd-pleaser.

One of the reasons I love this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can make it in a slow cooker or on the stovetop, and it’s perfect for using up leftover ham or bacon. I also appreciate how nutritious it is, with the beans providing a boost of protein and fiber. My kids adore this soup, and they’re always asking for seconds (or thirds!)

It’s one of those recipes that never fails to impress, whether you’re serving it as a main course or as a side dish. And let’s not forget the leftovers – they’re just as tasty as the first batch! I’ve made this soup countless times, but I still get excited every time I serve it up to my family.

There’s something special about sharing a warm, comforting bowl of goodness on a chilly evening.

Ham and 16 Bean Soup

4.8 from 855 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with a variety of beans, ham, and vegetables. Perfect for a cold day or when you need a satisfying meal.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Beans

1/2 cup each of the following dried beans: navy, great northern, pinto, kidney, black, garbanzo, lima, black-eyed peas, split peas, pink beans, red beans, yellow eye beans, mung beans, adzuki, black turtle, and cannellini

Vegetables

2 medium onions, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 large tomato, diced

Meat and Seasonings

1 lb ham, diced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1/2 tsp cayenne pepper

Liquids

8 cups water
2 cups beef broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse and sort all beans.
2Pick out any small stones or debris.
3Place beans in a large pot and cover with water.
4Bring to a boil over high heat.
5Boil for 2 minutes.
6Remove from heat and let sit for 1 hour.
7Drain and set aside.
8In the same large pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery.
9Cook over medium heat until vegetables begin to soften, approximately 5 minutes.
10Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute until fragrant.
11Add diced ham to the pot.
12Stir well to combine with vegetables.
13Cook for 3-4 minutes until ham begins to brown slightly.
14Add all drained beans, diced tomato, thyme, oregano, paprika, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper.
15Stir well to combine all ingredients.
16Pour in water and beef broth.
Stir well.
17Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
18Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 2 hours, stirring occasionally.
19Add more water or broth if the soup becomes too thick.
20The beans should be tender and the flavors well combined.
21Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
22Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.

🔧Equipment

Large soup pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 25mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 50g🥦Dietary Fiber: 15g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use a ham hock instead of diced ham for a more traditional flavor. Soak the beans overnight for easier digestion.

This ham and bean soup is a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s hearty, comforting, and packed with flavor, making it a great choice for family gatherings or a cozy night in.

Plus, it’s incredibly versatile and can be easily customized to suit your tastes. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham, making it both economical and practical.

I always make sure to have some in the freezer for those days when I need a quick and easy meal. It’s a recipe that I know my family will always love, and one that I’m happy to share with you.

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting reminder of home and family. It’s a dish that brings people together and creates lasting memories, and I hope it does the same for you.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and 16 Bean Soup

What is ham and 16 bean soup?

This recipe combines the rich flavor of ham with the simplicity of 16 bean soup. It’s an easy-to-make meal that can be customized to suit your taste.

How do you make ham and 16 bean soup?

To make this soup, you’ll need some basic pantry staples like canned beans, diced ham, onions, garlic, and spices. Simply sauté the onions and garlic in some oil until softened, then add in the canned beans, diced ham, and your choice of spices.

Can you use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! While 16 bean soup is traditional in this recipe, you can substitute in other types of beans like kidney beans or black beans if you prefer.

Is this soup suitable for vegetarians?

No – this recipe includes diced ham as its main protein source.

Can you make this soup in advance?

Yes! This soup freezes beautifully – simply thaw it out when you’re ready to serve.

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