If you’re looking for a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for chilly days or using up leftover ham, bean soup with a ham bone is a classic choice. This recipe brings together tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables for a dish that’s both nourishing and delicious. Plus, it’s budget-friendly and easy to make! Let’s dive into how you can make this soul-warming soup right at home.
Why Use a Ham Bone in Bean Soup?
The ham bone is the key to unlocking rich, smoky flavor in your bean soup. As the soup simmers, the bone releases deep, meaty notes and natural saltiness that infuse the beans and broth. It’s a fantastic way to get maximum flavor from leftover ham without wasting any part of it. The collagen and marrow in the bone also add a silky texture to the broth, making every spoonful satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
– 1 ham bone (with some meat scraps if possible)
– 1 pound dried navy beans (or great northern beans)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3-4 carrots, peeled and sliced
– 3 celery stalks, sliced
– 4-6 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-2 bay leaves
– Fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary (optional)
– 10 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Olive oil for sautéing
– Optional: additional diced ham for extra meatiness
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Soak the Beans Overnight
Start by placing your dried beans in a large bowl and cover them with plenty of water. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours. This softens the beans, reduces cooking time, and improves their texture in the soup.
2. Sauté Aromatics and Ham Bone
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
Next, add the ham bone and any ham scraps you have. Sauté for a few more minutes to brown the meat slightly and deepen the flavor.
3. Add Beans, Water, and Seasonings
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in about 10 cups of water or chicken broth. Toss in the bay leaves and herbs if using. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4. Simmer the Soup
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
5. Add Ham Meat and Adjust Seasoning
Remove the ham bone from the pot. Use a fork to scrape off any remaining meat and stir it back into the soup. If you have extra diced ham, add it now for more flavor and texture.
Taste your soup before adding salt, as the ham bone can be quite salty. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
6. Thicken the Soup (Optional)
If you prefer a thicker soup, mash about one-third of the beans with a potato masher or use an immersion blender for a few pulses. This creates a creamy consistency without losing the hearty bean texture.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle your ham and bean soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if you like, and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
Tips for the Best Ham and Bean Soup
– Don’t skip soaking the beans: It makes a big difference in texture and cooking time.
– Be patient with simmering: Low and slow cooking lets flavors develop fully.
– Adjust salt carefully: Ham bones are salty, so add salt at the end to avoid over-seasoning.
– Add extra veggies: Feel free to toss in potatoes, kale, or tomatoes for variety.
– Use a slow cooker or pressure cooker: These appliances can speed up the process and make it even easier.
Why This Recipe Works
This bean soup with a ham bone is a perfect blend of simple ingredients and slow cooking magic. The ham bone adds a smoky depth, while the beans provide creamy texture and protein. The sautéed vegetables bring sweetness and balance, and the herbs add freshness. It’s a dish that’s both rustic and refined, perfect for family dinners or meal prep.
Making bean soup with a ham bone is a wonderful way to transform leftovers into a delicious, comforting meal. With just a bit of prep and patience, you’ll have a pot full of hearty soup that warms you from the inside out. Enjoy the rich flavors and the cozy feeling that only a homemade ham and bean soup can bring!