Hearty Classic Ham and Bean Soup That Warms Your Soul

There is nothing like a warm bowl of soup on a snowy winter day. It is 6pm, and you need something hearty and filling for your family. This Classic Ham and Bean Soup is the perfect answer to a cold evening.

This recipe delivers a rich, smoky broth and tender beans. It is simple, honest food that makes your kitchen smell amazing. You will love how easy it is to get this on the table.

Why This Recipe Is a Winner

This recipe is a total winner for budget-friendly cooking. It uses simple pantry staples like dry beans and basic vegetables. You can feed a whole crowd without spending a lot of money.

The smoked ham hock creates a deep, savory flavor that tastes like it simmered all day. It is the ultimate comfort food for a quiet night in. Your family will keep coming back for second helpings.

Easy Cooking Steps

Everything happens in one big pot on your stove. You just need a few simple ingredients and some time to let it simmer. Even if you are a beginner, you can master this one-pot meal easily.

The hardest part is waiting for the delicious smell to fill your home. Most of the work is hands-off while the beans get tender. It is a stress-free way to cook a big family dinner.

Simple Ingredients

These are mostly pantry staples that work together to create incredible flavor.

• 1 lb dry navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 1.5 lbs cooked ham, diced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste

Step-by-Step

1. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic. Cook for one minute until it smells fragrant.
4. Add the beans, ham hock, and diced ham to the pot.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add thyme and bay leaves.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil. Reduce heat to low and cover.
7. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. The beans should be completely tender.
8. Remove the ham hock and bay leaves.
9. Shred any meat from the hock and return it to the pot.
10. Season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Best Ways to Enjoy It

Serve this soup warm with a slice of crusty sourdough bread. The bread is perfect for soaking up every last drop of smoky broth. You can also pair it with a simple side salad for a balanced meal.

Set the table, light a candle, and enjoy this cozy dinner with your family. It is a great way to slow down and enjoy a warm winter evening together. Everyone will feel full and happy.

Storage & Reheating

This soup tastes even better the next day. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. It is a perfect meal prep option for busy weekday lunches.

You can also freeze this soup for up to three months. Reheat it gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water if the broth has thickened too much.

Recipe Tips

• Soak your beans overnight for the best, most even texture.
• Don’t add salt until the very end of the cooking process.
• Use a leftover holiday ham bone to add even more flavor.
• Sauté the vegetables until they are golden and sweet.
• Keep the heat low so the beans do not burst while simmering.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar for a bright finish.
• Double the batch for a budget-friendly way to feed a crowd.

Ways to Switch It Up

• Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end.
• Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little spicy kick.
• Swap navy beans for Great Northern beans for a creamier texture.
• Use smoked turkey wings if you do not want to use pork.

FAQs

Do I really need to soak the beans?

Yes, soaking helps the beans cook faster and more evenly. It also makes them much easier for your body to digest. If you forget, you can use the quick-soak method on the bean package.

Can I use canned beans instead?

You can, but the texture will be much softer. Use about three or four cans of rinsed beans. Reduce the simmering time to about 30 minutes since they are already cooked.

What if my soup is too thin?

You can mash a few of the beans against the side of the pot. This releases starch and naturally thickens the broth. It makes the soup feel extra creamy and rich.

I hope this cozy soup brings warmth to your winter nights. It is a simple joy that your whole family will love. Give it a try and enjoy every smoky bite.

— Lidia