ham white bean soup recipe

The Best ham white bean soup recipe

I have always been a fan of hearty and comforting soups, especially during the cold winter months. One of my favorite soups to make and enjoy is ham white bean soup, a classic Italian recipe that never fails to satisfy my family’s cravings. The moment I start simmering the ham hocks and beans on the stovetop, my kids know that a delicious meal is on its way, and they get excited just thinking about it. This soup has been a staple in our household for years, and I’ve perfected the recipe over time to ensure it’s both flavorful and nutritious.

The key to this recipe lies in the combination of tender beans, rich ham broth, and the perfect balance of spices. It’s a true comfort food that warms the heart and soul, making it perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy night in. As a busy mom, I appreciate that this soup is not only easy to make but also packed with goodness. The beans are rich in fiber and protein, while the ham provides a good source of lean protein.

This soup is also incredibly versatile – it can be served as a main course, or paired with some crusty bread for a satisfying snack. One of my favorite aspects of this recipe is how it brings people together. Whenever I serve it at family gatherings or potlucks, everyone raves about the flavors and textures. It’s become a beloved tradition in our household, and I’m happy to share it with you today so you can create your own delicious memories with your loved ones.

To make this soup truly special, I like to add some fresh herbs like parsley or thyme towards the end of cooking time. This adds an extra layer of freshness and depth to the dish without overpowering the other flavors. Feel free to experiment with different herbs or spices to make this recipe your own! The best part about ham white bean soup is that it’s incredibly easy to customize to your taste preferences.

If you’re not a fan of strong flavors, you can tone down the amount of garlic or omit certain spices altogether. On the other hand, if you’re feeling adventurous, you can add some diced vegetables like carrots or zucchini for added texture and nutrition. In short, ham white bean soup is more than just a recipe – it’s a way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories around the dinner table.

Ham and White Bean Soup

4.7 from 1038 votes

This hearty soup combines tender ham, creamy white beans, and aromatic vegetables for a comforting meal. This recipe is a must-try for any occasion.

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

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb ham, diced
2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
1 potato, diced
1 tsp dried thyme
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tbsp olive oil
1 bay leaf
6 cups chicken broth
2 tbsp flour
Salt and pepper to taste

Optional Garnishes

Parsley, chopped
Grated parmesan cheese
Sliced green onions

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
2Add onion, carrots, and celery.
3Cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are softened and slightly golden, about 5 minutes.
4Add diced ham to the pot and cook with vegetables for an additional 3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
6Stir in flour to coat the vegetables and ham.
7Cook for 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
8Gradually pour in chicken broth, stirring continuously to prevent lumps from forming.
9Add soaked white beans, potato, thyme, and bay leaf.
10Stir well to combine.
11Bring the soup to a boil over high heat.
12Reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until beans and potatoes are tender.
13Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
14Season with salt and pepper to taste.
15If the soup is too thick, add a bit more broth or water.
16If it is too thin, simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce the liquid slightly.
17Remove the bay leaf before serving.
18Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, grated parmesan cheese, and sliced green onions if desired.
19Serve hot and enjoy.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 8g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to partially blend some of the beans and vegetables. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.

Watch Video Of How Ham and White Bean Soup Works

Ham white bean soup is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re planning a family gathering or just need a comforting meal after a long day. Its versatility makes it suitable for both weeknight meals and special occasions alike.

When stored properly in an airtight container in the fridge or freezer, this soup stays fresh for several days. Reheating leftovers is simple – just gently warm them over low heat on your stovetop or use your microwave on low power settings.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and White Bean Soup

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

For this recipe, you can use either cannellini beans or Great Northern beans. Both types are suitable substitutes for each other.

Q: Can I use leftover ham instead of buying new?

Sure! Using leftover ham will save you money and reduce food waste.

Q: How long does this soup keep in the fridge?

This soup will keep in the fridge for up to five days when stored properly in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze this soup for later use?

Yes! Freezing is an excellent way to preserve this soup for future meals.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat this soup?

The best way to reheat this soup is by gently warming it over low heat on your stovetop or by using your microwave on low power settings.

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