Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup

2 qt.

Ingredients

  • 2 tbsp. olive oil

    plus more for serving

  • 8 oz. diced ham
  • 2 carrots
  • 2 pieces celery
  • 1 medium yellow onion

    chopped

  • 1/2 tsp. kosher salt
    plus more to taste
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 2 tbsp. tomato paste
  • 4 c. chicken stock
  • 2 15 oz. cans cannellini or navy beans

    drained and rinsed

  • 1 bay leaf
  • 6 sprigs of thyme
  • 1/2 tsp. ground black pepper
  • 2 tbsp. chopped parsley

Directions

  1. 1

    Heat a large Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then the ham. Cook until it is golden brown, stirring occasionally, about 6 to 8 minutes.

  2. 2

    Add the carrots, celery, and onion to the Dutch oven. Season with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Cook 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened. Add the garlic and tomato paste and stir to combine. Cook 2 more minutes.

  3. 3

    Add the stock, beans, and bay leaf, if using. Using kitchen twine, tie the thyme in a bundle and add to the pot. Bring the soup to a simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to a low simmer over medium-low heat for 10 to 12 minutes, to thicken slightly and let the flavors come together.

  4. 4

    Remove the bundle of thyme and bay leaf. Add the black pepper then season with more salt to taste. Serve soup in bowls and top with parsley.

Ham and Bean Soup

Ham and Bean Soup

2 qt.

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About this Recipe

Craving a bowl of comforting warmth that feels like a hug on a chilly evening? This Ham and Bean Soup recipe delivers classic, satisfying flavors that are sure to become a family favorite.

This recipe celebrates the timeless pairing of savory ham and creamy cannellini or navy beans. The deep flavor foundation comes from aromatic vegetables like carrots, celery, and onion, along with the richness of tomato paste and hearty chicken stock, creating a robust and deeply satisfying broth.

You can anticipate a truly wholesome and flavorful soup experience. The tender diced ham and soft, creamy beans are perfectly balanced by the savory depth of the vegetable medley. Each spoonful offers a comforting blend of earthy notes from the beans, a hint of sweetness from the carrots, and the distinctive herbaceous aroma of bay leaf and thyme, all coming together in a rich, harmonious broth.

This versatile soup welcomes your personal touch. While delicious with ham, you could also use leftover smoked turkey or even add some cooked sausage for a different protein twist. For added greens, stir in some fresh spinach or kale during the final moments of cooking. If you're looking to make it vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable stock for a delicious plant-based meal.

This hearty Ham and Bean Soup is ideal for a comforting weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend lunch. Serve it alongside a slice of crusty bread for dipping, and don't forget a final drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a bright finish.

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