Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

When you think of comfort food, what often comes to mind? It’s that warm, hearty embrace of a bowl filled with White Bean and Ham Soup. Imagine sitting in your cozy kitchen, the rich aroma of simmering herbs wafting through the air, teasing your senses and making your mouth water. This soup is everything you want on a chilly day: creamy white beans, tender ham, and a medley of vibrant vegetables that all come together to create a symphony of flavor.

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Now, picture this: a rainy afternoon spent with friends, laughter echoing off the walls as you ladle out bowls of this delicious soup. It’s the kind of dish that sparks nostalgia and brings people together. You’ll find it perfect for those busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Trust me; this recipe will have everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• White Beans: Use canned or dried beans; both options add creaminess while providing protein and fiber.
• Ham Hock: This adds depth and smokiness; look for one with plenty of meat attached.
• Onion: Chop one medium onion to build the flavor base; it offers sweetness when sautéed.
• Carrots: Two medium carrots diced will bring sweetness and color; choose firm ones for best results.
• Celery: Dice two stalks for crunch; fresh celery contributes an essential aromatic quality.
• Garlic: Mince three cloves to infuse pungent flavor; fresh garlic really elevates the dish.
• Thyme: Fresh thyme sprigs (or dried) will impart herby warmth; it’s perfect for this comforting soup.
• Chicken Broth: Use four cups to create a rich base; low-sodium broth works well if you’re watching salt intake.
• Olive Oil: A couple tablespoons are needed for sautéing the vegetables until soft and fragrant.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

*Get your mixing bowl ready because we’re diving into this delicious soup!*

Preparing the Ingredients

Start by rinsing those white beans under cold water if using canned ones. Drain them well so our soup doesn’t become too salty. While you’re doing that, chop your onion, carrots, celery, and garlic into bite-sized pieces.

Sautéing the Vegetables

In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil until shimmering. Toss in onions first and sauté until they turn translucent and sweet-smelling—about five minutes should do it! Add garlic next and stir for another minute until fragrant.

Building Flavor

Now add diced carrots and celery to the mix! Sauté these beauties until they soften slightly—about five minutes more is perfect here. Season with salt and pepper to taste because every good dish starts with seasoning!

Cooking the Ham Hock

Time to introduce our star ingredient—the ham hock! Nestle it right into the vegetable mixture like it’s taking a cozy nap. Pour in chicken broth until everything is submerged; let it come to a gentle boil.

Simmering Away

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let your soup simmer uncovered for about an hour. This allows all those glorious flavors to meld together beautifully while filling your kitchen with delightful aromas.

Finishing Touches

After an hour has passed, carefully remove the ham hock from the pot (it’ll be hot!). Let it cool slightly before shredding any meat back into your soup—don’t leave any tasty morsels behind! Stir in thyme leaves just before serving.

Serving Up

Ladle generous portions into bowls while sipping on some nice wine or sparkling water! Don’t forget crusty bread on the side—you’ll want something to dunk into that glorious soup!

And there you have it—your very own White Bean and Ham Soup! Enjoy every spoonful as you relish those cozy memories created around shared meals with loved ones!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic until fragrant, then add diced ham for that smoky goodness. Next, toss in the beans, broth, and seasonings. Let it simmer while you kick back with a good book (or your favorite Netflix show).

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out ham for turkey or even a plant-based option if you’re feeling adventurous. Add some kale or spinach for extra greens, or sprinkle in Parmesan cheese for an umami boost. The world is your oyster!

Storing & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to bring back the soup’s creamy texture and flavor. It’ll taste just like day one!

I remember the first time I made this White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe; my friends devoured it and asked for seconds! Their laughter and compliments filled my kitchen with warmth that night.

FAQs:

What ingredients are needed for the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

To create a delicious White Bean and Ham Soup, gather the following ingredients: dried white beans (like Great Northern or navy beans), diced ham, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaves, thyme, chicken broth, and black pepper. You may also want to include fresh parsley for garnish. These ingredients come together to create a hearty and flavorful soup that is perfect for any occasion.

How long does it take to prepare the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

The total time required for making this White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe is approximately 2 hours. This includes about 30 minutes for preparation and around 1 hour and 30 minutes for cooking. If you use canned beans instead of dried ones, the cooking time will decrease significantly. Regardless of your method, the end result will be a warm and comforting dish.

Can I freeze the White Bean and Ham Soup?

Yes, you can freeze the White Bean and Ham Soup. To do so, let the soup cool completely before transferring it into airtight containers or freezer bags. It’s best to store the soup in portions so you can easily reheat only what you need later. Properly stored, it can last in the freezer for up to three months without losing its flavor or texture.

What are some variations of the White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe?

There are many variations you can try with this White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe. For example, consider adding vegetables like spinach or kale for extra nutrition. You could also experiment with different herbs such as rosemary or oregano to enhance the flavor profile. Another option is to add diced tomatoes for a slight tanginess that complements the ham beautifully.

Conclusion for White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe:

In conclusion, this White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe is both simple and satisfying. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a warm dish that brings comfort on cold days. Don’t hesitate to customize your recipe with additional vegetables or herbs based on your preferences. Enjoy this hearty soup with crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will love!

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White Bean and Ham Soup

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 6

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Description

White Bean and Ham Soup is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for chilly days or cozy gatherings. This rich and hearty dish features creamy white beans, tender ham hock, and a medley of fresh vegetables simmered to perfection. With its delightful aroma and savory flavor, it’s a crowd-pleaser that warms both body and soul. Easy to prepare in just one pot, this soup is versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that invites laughter and good memories around the table.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 cup dried white beans (Great Northern or navy)
• 1 medium ham hock (about 1 lb)
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 sprigs fresh thyme (or 1 tsp dried thyme)
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

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Instructions

1. Rinse the white beans under cold water if using canned; drain well.
2. In a large pot over medium heat, add olive oil. Sauté onions until translucent (about 5 minutes). Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
3. Stir in diced carrots and celery; sauté until softened (about 5 minutes). Season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the ham hock and pour in the chicken broth until everything is submerged. Bring to a gentle boil.
5. Reduce heat to low; simmer uncovered for about an hour.
6. Carefully remove the ham hock; shred any meat back into the soup once cooled. Stir in thyme before serving.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 90 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 320
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 680mg
• Fat: 9g
• Saturated Fat: 2g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 12g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 40mg

Keywords: Customize by swapping ham for turkey or adding greens like spinach or kale. For added richness, blend half of the soup before serving. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.