Ham and White Bean Soup

When it comes to cozy, comforting meals, few dishes hit the spot like a warm bowl of ham and white bean soup. This easy-to-make soup is full of rich flavors, hearty ingredients, and the perfect balance of savory goodness. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying dinner or a comforting lunch, this ham and white bean soup is sure to please your taste buds and fill you up!

Ingredients for Ham and White Bean Soup

To make this simple yet flavorful soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced (you can use leftover ham or a ham steak)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)

Instructions for Ham and White Bean Soup

this recipe

1. Prepare the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5-7 minutes until softened, stirring occasionally.

2. Add Garlic and Herbs:
Add the minced garlic, dried thyme, and dried rosemary to the pot. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant.

3. Combine Broth and Beans:
Pour in the chicken broth, then add the drained and rinsed white beans. Stir everything together and bring the soup to a simmer.

4. Add Ham and Simmer:
Add the diced ham to the pot. Stir to combine, and let the soup simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Add salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley or thyme for added flavor and color.

Tips for the Perfect Ham and White Bean Soup

• Use Leftover Ham: This soup is a great way to use up leftover holiday ham. Simply chop it into small pieces and add it to the soup for a savory and satisfying meal.
• Make it Richer: For a creamier version of this soup, you can add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half during the simmering process.
• Vegetarian Option: You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added texture.
• Frozen Beans: If you prefer, you can use frozen white beans instead of canned beans. Just be sure to thaw them before adding to the soup.

How to Store Leftovers

This ham and white bean soup makes great leftovers! To store, let the soup cool to room temperature and then transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it up on the stove or in the microwave until hot.

Why You’ll Love Ham and White Bean Soup

This ham and white bean soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s loaded with fiber from the white beans, protein from the ham, and a medley of fresh vegetables. The savory broth, along with the thyme and rosemary, creates a deliciously satisfying flavor that’s perfect for cold weather. It’s easy to make, budget-friendly, and perfect for meal prep, making it a winner in any kitchen!

Final Thoughts

Ham and white bean soup is a versatile, satisfying, and delicious dish that will quickly become a family favorite. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this recipe has you covered. Give it a try, and enjoy a bowl of hearty goodness today!

Serving Tips for Ham and White Bean Soup

• Perfect Pairings:
  Serve your ham and white bean soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. You can also pair it with a fresh green salad for a light and refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
• Toppings:
  For added flavor and texture, top the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Fresh herbs, like parsley or thyme, also make great garnishes, adding a burst of color and flavor.
• Meal Prep:
  Ham and white bean soup is ideal for meal prepping. Store individual portions in airtight containers for easy grab-and-go lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Storage Tips for Ham and White Bean Soup

• Refrigerating Leftovers:
  After cooking, allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days.
• Freezing:
  Ham and white bean soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container or a resealable plastic bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Be sure to leave some space in the container or bag for the soup to expand as it freezes.
• Reheating:
  To reheat refrigerated soup, simply warm it up on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For frozen soup, let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or reheat it directly from frozen on the stove, adding a little extra broth or water to thin it out if needed. You can also use a microwave, heating in intervals and stirring between each one.

By following these serving and storage tips, you can enjoy your ham and white bean soup for days to come!

1. Can I use canned beans for this recipe?
Yes, canned white beans are a great option for this recipe! Just be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the soup to remove excess sodium and preservatives. Alternatively, you can use dried beans, but they will need to be soaked and cooked beforehand.

2. Can I make Ham and White Bean Soup in a slow cooker?
Absolutely! To make this soup in a slow cooker, simply sauté the vegetables and garlic in a pan before transferring them to the slow cooker. Add the broth, beans, and ham, then cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The slow cooker allows the flavors to meld beautifully, making the soup even more delicious!

3. How can I make this soup vegetarian or vegan?
To make a vegetarian or vegan version, omit the ham and substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can also add extra vegetables, such as spinach or zucchini, to enhance the soup’s flavor and texture.

4. Can I freeze Ham and White Bean Soup?
Yes, Ham and White Bean Soup freezes well! Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy it, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove or microwave.

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