Holiday Ham and Bean Soup
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A Cozy Bowl of Holiday Ham and Bean Soup
There’s something magical about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s loaded with hearty ham and nutritious beans. This Holiday Ham and Bean Soup has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months when comfort food reigns supreme. It’s not just a simple meal; it brings together the rich flavors of smoky ham and tender beans, making it perfect for family dinners or festive gatherings.
Reasons to Try It
Why should you whip up this delightful soup? First off, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham, which many of us have after holiday feasts. But beyond that, this recipe is incredibly budget-friendly, allowing you to create a delicious and satisfying dish without breaking the bank. Kid-approved? Absolutely. The gentle blend of flavor makes it a hit for all ages. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning less cleanup after a cozy meal.
"This soup is the ultimate comfort food! It’s rich, hearty, and packed with flavor. My family devoured it in one sitting!" – Sarah, a happy home cook
The Cooking Process Explained
Making Holiday Ham and Bean Soup is a breeze. In just a few steps, you can transform humble ingredients into a soul-warming dish. We’ll start by gathering our ingredients and then move into the cooking process, which is mainly about simmering and allowing those flavors to meld together beautifully.
What You’ll Need
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delightful soup:
- 1 pound Ham steak (diced for the soup)
- 2 cans Canned white beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 large Onion (chopped)
- 2 medium Carrots (chopped)
- 2 stalks Celery (chopped)
- 3 cloves Garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1/2 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme (or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme)
- 1 Bay leaf
- 4 cups Chicken broth (or vegetable stock for a lighter flavor)
Feel free to swap the ham for a smoked turkey or omit meat entirely for a vegetarian twist!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Ham: Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic release its aroma.
Combine the Rest: Pour in the rinsed beans, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.
Finish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy hot!
How to Plate and Pair
To elevate your soup experience, consider garnishing with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Serve it alongside crusty bread or homemade cornbread for a complete comfort meal. A fresh green salad also pairs beautifully, adding a crisp contrast to the warm soup.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers? Fantastic news! This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a bit of water or broth if it thickens too much. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup for up to three months. Just remember to label and date your containers!
Helpful Cooking Tips
To ensure perfect results, consider these tips:
- For an extra depth of flavor, you can smoke the ham steak before dicing it.
- Feel free to add more vegetables such as bell peppers or zucchini for additional nutrition.
- If pressed for time, using pre-chopped vegetables can significantly speed up prep time.
Creative Twists
While the original version is delicious, don’t hesitate to experiment! Try adding a touch of brightness with lemon juice or zest before serving, or kick up the heat with a pinch of red pepper flakes. You can also swap in your favorite greens like kale or spinach for added nutrients.
Your Questions Answered
How long does it take to prepare this soup?
The prep time is about 15 minutes, with an additional 30 minutes for cooking, making it a quick one-pot meal.Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ham with smoked tofu or simply increase the quantity of beans, and use vegetable broth for a lighter flavor.How can I store the soup safely?
Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or freeze for up to three months. Always let it cool before sealing tightly.
With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, this Holiday Ham and Bean Soup is sure to become a cherished recipe in your home, perfect for enjoying alone or sharing with loved ones. Happy cooking!
Holiday Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add a splash of olive oil. Once hot, toss in the chopped onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham. Cook for an additional minute, letting the garlic release its aroma.
- Pour in the rinsed beans, salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 25-30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Enjoy hot!
