Description

As the colder days settle in, there’s nothing more comforting than a steaming bowl of Ham and White Bean Soup to warm your body and soul. This classic dish brings together the creaminess of white beans and the smoky richness of ham, creating a meal that’s as satisfying as it is nourishing. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe is both practical and packed with flavor. It’s also a fantastic way to repurpose leftover ham, turning it into something extraordinary.

Ingredients

• Base Ingredients:
• 1 lb (2 cups) dried white beans (like cannellini or navy beans), soaked overnight, or 2 cans (15 oz) of white beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 large ham bone or 2 cups diced ham
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 2 bay leaves
• Seasonings:
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Garnishes:
• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Crusty bread or rolls for serving

Preparation Method

Prepare the Beans:
If using dried beans, drain and rinse them thoroughly after soaking overnight. If using canned beans, simply rinse and set aside.

Sauté the Aromatics:
Heat olive oil or butter in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened (about 5–7 minutes). Stir in the garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.

Combine the Ingredients:
Place the ham bone or diced ham in the pot with the sautéed vegetables. Pour in the broth, ensuring the ham bone is fully submerged. Add the beans, bay leaves, thyme, and smoked paprika if using.

Simmer the Soup:
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer. Cook for 1.5–2 hours for dried beans or 30–40 minutes for canned beans, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

Finalize the Soup:
Once the beans are tender, remove the ham bone. Shred any remaining meat from the bone and return it to the soup. Discard the bone and bay leaves. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

Tips and Conclusion

For a creamier texture, blend a cup of the soup and stir it back into the pot. You can also add a handful of fresh greens, like spinach or kale, for added nutrients and color.

This Ham and White Bean Soup is the perfect balance of heartiness and flavor, making it a beloved classic for a reason. Whether you’re enjoying it fresh off the stove or reheated as leftovers, its depth of flavor only improves with time. Ideal for cold evenings or a cozy family lunch, it’s a recipe worth revisiting time and again. Don’t forget to explore more comforting recipes on our site—there’s always something delicious waiting to inspire you! 🥣