ham black bean soup recipe

The Best ham black bean soup recipe

I’ve been making this ham black bean soup recipe for years, and it’s always a hit with my family. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The combination of smoky ham, tender black beans, and aromatic spices is a flavor sensation that never gets old.

I love that it’s also super easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some protein and fiber without feeling like you’re sacrificing taste. My kids are obsessed with the crunchy croutons on top, and I appreciate how versatile this recipe is – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish.

The leftovers are even better the next day, when the flavors have melded together perfectly. This recipe has become a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will be in yours too once you try it out! As a busy mom, I appreciate how simple yet satisfying this recipe is – no fuss, no muss!

Just throw all the ingredients into one pot and let the magic happen. It’s amazing how something so humble can be so packed with flavor. And don’t even get me started on the benefits of using canned beans – not only are they convenient, but they’re also affordable and environmentally friendly!

All in all, this ham black bean soup recipe is a true winner in my book.

Ham Black Bean Soup

4.8 from 1632 votes

A hearty and comforting soup made with tender ham, black beans, and a blend of aromatic vegetables. Perfect for a cold day.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

2 tbsp olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 stalks celery, diced
1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
2 cups diced ham
4 cups chicken broth
1 can diced tomatoes
1 tsp cumin
1 tsp smoked paprika
1 tsp oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2Add onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.
3Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften.
4Add black beans, diced ham, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cumin, smoked paprika, and oregano.
5Stir well to combine.
6Increase heat to high and bring to a boil.
7Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
8The ham should be heated through and the flavors should be well combined.
9Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10Stir in chopped cilantro just before serving.
11The soup should have a rich, hearty flavor and a thick, comforting texture.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 30g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoky flavor, use smoked ham. You can also add a pinch of cayenne pepper for a bit of heat.

This ham black bean soup recipe is more than just another tasty meal option – it’s an experience! Serve it up at your next family gathering or weeknight dinner party for guaranteed oohs and ahhs from everyone involved.

One thing I love about this recipe is how versatile it is – whether you’re looking for a comforting bowl on its own or something more substantial paired with some crusty bread on the side (or both!) , this soup delivers every time.

Of course, there are always leftovers after any meal we make here at home… but trust me when I say these leftovers become an even better version of themselves once refrigerated overnight then reheated tomorrow morning.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Black Bean Soup

Q: What type of ham should I use for this recipe?

A: For this recipe, you’ll want to use a good quality ham that’s high in protein and low in sodium. Look for something labeled as ‘black forest’ or ‘smoked’ ham – these will give your soup a rich, meaty flavor without overpowering the other ingredients. If you can’t find either of those options, you can also use regular old-fashioned ham or even leftover roast beef if you’re feeling fancy!

Q: Can I substitute the black beans with other types of beans?

A: While black beans are definitely the star of this show, you can experiment with other types of beans if you like! Pinto beans or kidney beans will give your soup a similar texture and flavor profile to black beans. However, keep in mind that different types of beans will change the overall flavor slightly – so feel free to experiment but don’t expect exactly the same taste.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: Unfortunately not – while there’s no actual meat in this soup (the ham is just added for flavor), using animal-derived broth makes it unsuitable for vegans and vegetarians who follow strict dietary guidelines. However, if you’re looking for a plant-based alternative to traditional soups, try swapping out the broth for vegetable stock instead!

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! In fact, one of the best things about this recipe is how well it freezes – simply transfer individual portions to freezer-safe containers or bags and store them at 0°F (-18°C) until ready to eat (up to 3 months). Reheat when needed by adding some extra broth if necessary.

Similar Posts