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Hearty Ham and Bean Soup

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A warm and comforting ham and bean soup made with tender beans, savory ham, vegetables, and herbs simmered together for a classic hearty meal.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 lb dried navy beans (or 4 cups cooked beans)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1 cup diced potatoes (optional)
  • 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the dried beans and soak them overnight, or use a quick-soak method by boiling for 5 minutes and resting for 1 hour. Drain and set aside.
  2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, cooking for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the ham, soaked beans, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, pepper, and potatoes (if using).
  5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 1.5–2 hours or until beans are tender.
  6. Remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning with salt as needed.
  7. Stir in fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a creamier soup, mash some of the beans in the pot before serving.
  • Smoked ham hocks can be used instead of diced ham for deeper flavor.
  • Leftovers thicken naturally; add extra broth when reheating if desired.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://tastyera.com/hearty-ham-and-bean-soup/