When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of Classic Navy Bean and Ham Soup to bring comfort and satisfaction. This timeless recipe has been a favorite in households for generations, combining the heartiness of beans with the savory goodness of ham.
Picture yourself sitting down to a steaming bowl of this delightful soup, where every spoonful is packed with rich flavors and a slight smokiness from the ham. It’s perfect for sharing with family or enjoying as a cozy solo meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to utilize leftover ham!
The Heartwarming Classic Navy Bean and Ham Soup
This Classic Navy Bean and Ham Soup is thick, hearty, and full of tender beans, smoky ham, and aromatic vegetables. The comforting taste will remind you of home-cooked meals, making it a perfect choice for any season.
Ingredients
- 1 pound navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- 8 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked navy beans.
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, celery, and carrots, sautéing until softened (about 5 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked beans, bay leaf, thyme, and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for about 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
- Add Ham: Stir in the diced ham and continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 250kcal
- Fat: 5g
- Protein: 16g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
