Quick Ham and Bean Soup

Spread the love

Why Make This Recipe

Quick Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect dish for anyone who desires a hearty meal in a short amount of time. It’s not only filling but also packed with protein and fiber, making it a nourishing option for lunch or dinner. This recipe harnesses the flavors of ham, beans, and fresh vegetables, creating a comforting delight that everyone will love. In addition to its delightful taste, this soup is also a budget-friendly meal. Using leftover ham or canned beans helps reduce waste and save money.

The beauty of Quick Ham and Bean Soup is its simplicity. With a few familiar ingredients found in most kitchens, you can whip up this soup quickly, making it ideal for busy weeknights. It’s also a great option for meal prepping since it stores well and can easily be reheated. Additionally, you can customize the soup with whatever beans or vegetables you have on hand, making it versatile and adaptable to your taste preferences.

How to Make Quick Ham and Bean Soup

Ingredients

1 lb Ham (bone or diced)
2 cups Beans (dry or canned)
1 medium Onion
2 medium Carrots
2 stalks Celery
3 cloves Garlic
6 cups Chicken broth or water
2 Bay leaves
1 teaspoon Thyme
1 teaspoon Black pepper
1/4 cup Fresh parsley

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients: To start, chop the ham into bite-sized pieces. If you’re using a bone-in ham, you can place the whole bone in the pot for flavor. Next, dice one medium onion, slice two medium carrots, and chop two stalks of celery. Finally, mince three cloves of garlic. Having everything ready will make the cooking process smooth and easy.
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced onions, sliced carrots, and chopped celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes, or until they are softened. Afterward, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring often to prevent burning.
Add the Ham: If you are using diced ham, add it to the pot now. For those using a ham bone, place the entire bone into the pot. The ham will infuse the soup with flavor as it cooks.
Pour in the Liquid: Next, add 6 cups of chicken broth or water to the pot. The broth gives the soup a rich taste, while water keeps it simple. If you use water, consider adding more spices to enhance the flavor.
Include the Beans and Seasonings: Now it’s time to add the beans to the pot. If you’re using dry beans, make sure they are soaked beforehand. If you have canned beans, simply drain and rinse them before adding. After adding the beans, toss in the two bay leaves, one teaspoon of thyme, and one teaspoon of black pepper. Stir everything together and bring this to a boil.
Let It Simmer: Once the soup reaches a boil, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let it simmer gently for about 30-45 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the beans to soften if they’re dry. You can stir occasionally while it simmers.
Final Touches: After the simmering time, remove the bay leaves and the ham bone. If you used a bone, shred any meat from the bone and return it to the pot. This adds more delicious ham flavor to the soup. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding salt or pepper to your liking.
Garnish and Serve: To serve, ladle the hot soup into bowls. Garnish each bowl with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and added freshness. Enjoy your homemade Quick Ham and Bean Soup!

How to Serve Quick Ham and Bean Soup

Serving Quick Ham and Bean Soup can be simple and versatile. You can present this soup in various ways to appeal to your family and guests:

With Crusty Bread: Serve the soup alongside a loaf of crusty bread, like sourdough or baguette. Guests can dip the bread into the soup, making for a tasty combination.
With Crackers: For a lighter approach, offer a selection of crackers. You can place them on the side to crunch into the soup.
As a Meal: This soup can stand alone as a meal, filled with protein and veggies. You don’t necessarily need a side dish, but a light salad can complement it if desired.
With Cheese: Cheese lovers can sprinkle grated cheese, such as cheddar or Parmesan, on top of their soup just before serving for extra creaminess.
With a Squeeze of Lemon: A little acidity brightens the flavor of the soup. Consider providing lemon wedges for guests to squeeze into their bowl as per their taste.

How to Store Quick Ham and Bean Soup

Storing Quick Ham and Bean Soup is quite straightforward, and it can even improve in flavor as it sits:

Refrigeration: Allow the soup to cool down to room temperature after cooking. Transfer it into an airtight container and refrigerate. It will last for about 3-4 days in the fridge.
Freezing: If you want to store the soup for a longer duration, freezing is a great option. Ensure the soup is completely cooled before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Leave some space at the top of the container, as the soup will expand when frozen. The soup can last in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy leftovers, simply reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions in a microwave-safe bowl, stirring occasionally to heat evenly.

Tips to Make Quick Ham and Bean Soup

Creating a delicious soup is easy when you know a few helpful tips:

Use Leftover Ham: This recipe is perfect for using leftover ham from holidays or dinners. The more smoky and flavorful the ham, the richer the taste of the soup.
Mix and Match Beans: You don’t have to stick to one type of bean. Consider using a mix of your favorite beans, like navy beans, black beans, or kidney beans. This adds texture and complexity to the soup.
Adjust Thickness: If you prefer your soup thicker, mash some beans with a fork or blend a small portion and stir it back into the soup. You can also simmer it uncovered to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Add Vegetables: Feel free to throw in more veggies if you have them on hand. Peas, corn, or even diced potatoes can enhance the soup’s nutrition and flavor.
Season to Taste: Adjust spices to your preference. Add a little bit of cayenne or crushed red pepper for heat, or include a splash of vinegar for acidity and brightness.

Variation

While the classic Quick Ham and Bean Soup is delicious, you might want to try some variations to switch things up:

Smoky Flavor: Add smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to make the soup even smokier.
Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking for a creamy texture and rich flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham and use vegetable broth, adding in more beans and veggies for a hearty vegetarian version.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?

Yes, canned beans are a great shortcut! If you’re using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them, and add them during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking to heat through.

2. What type of ham is best for this recipe?

Any type of ham works well, but a smoked ham or a ham bone will impart a deeper flavor into the soup. Diced ham can also be used if you prefer a faster cooking time.

3. Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. You can easily make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer until you’re ready to enjoy it.

4. What can I serve with the soup?

Quick Ham and Bean Soup can be enjoyed on its own or with sides such as a simple green salad, garlic bread, or cornbread for a comforting meal.

5. How do I adjust the thickness of the soup?

You can make the soup thicker by mashing some of the beans or letting it simmer uncovered for a longer period. If it’s too thick, just add a little more broth or water to achieve your desired consistency.

This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a warm hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly days or when you need a quick, satisfying dish. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a cozy Sunday gathering, Quick Ham and Bean Soup is sure to please your taste buds and warm your heart!