White Bean and Ham Soup

White Bean and Ham Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that is perfect for chilly days or when you’re craving a satisfying meal. Packed with protein-rich beans, savory ham, and flavorful vegetables, this soup is sure to warm you up from the inside out.

Why Make White Bean and Ham Soup

White Bean and Ham Soup is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. It requires simple ingredients that are often found in the pantry and fridge, making it a convenient option for a quick and nutritious meal. Additionally, this soup is highly customizable, allowing you to adjust the seasonings and ingredients to suit your taste preferences.

How to Make White Bean and Ham Soup

1. Rinse and sort through the beans, discarding any rocks or debris. Set aside.
2. Dice the onion, celery, and carrots. Mince the garlic.
3. Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion, celery, and carrots. Cook the vegetables until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Add the water and Italian seasoning to the pot along with the dried beans. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cover with a lid. Cook, stirring every 30 minutes, for 2 hours or until the beans are mostly tender.
5. Stir in the cooked diced ham, salt, and ground pepper. Continue simmering for an additional 30 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are fully cooked.
6. Adjust the consistency of the soup by adding additional water or chicken stock as desired just before serving. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed.

Serving Suggestions

Serve White Bean and Ham Soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Storage Info

Store any leftover White Bean and Ham Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for longer storage. To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Some Techniques or Tips

• To shorten the cooking time, you can soak the dried beans overnight in water before cooking.
• For extra flavor, consider using homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
• Don’t skip the Italian seasoning as it adds a depth of flavor to the soup.

Variation

If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree a portion of the cooked beans before adding the ham. This will create a creamier texture while still retaining the hearty bean flavor.

FAQs about White Bean and Ham Soup

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? Yes, you can substitute canned Great Northern Beans for dried beans in this recipe. However, reduce the cooking time accordingly since canned beans are already cooked.
2. Can I use a different type of bean? While Great Northern Beans are traditionally used in this recipe, you can experiment with other varieties such as navy beans or cannellini beans.
3. Can I make this soup in a slow cooker? Absolutely! Simply follow steps 1 and 2, then transfer the ingredients to a slow cooker along with the water, beans, and Italian seasoning. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours, then stir in the cooked ham and seasonings before serving.

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