Introduction

Picture this: It’s a chilly evening; the wind howls outside your window, and all you want is to wrap your hands around a warm bowl of comfort. The aroma of savory ham and fragrant beans fills the air, inviting everyone home. This is the magic of Basic Ham and Bean Soup—a dish that warms both the body and the heart. It’s a recipe steeped in simplicity yet bursting with flavor, making it the perfect choice for a cozy night in or a festive gathering. Let’s dive into this family favorite that has been on my table for many seasons.

Why Make This Recipe

When it comes to easy, comforting recipes, Basic Ham and Bean Soup checks all the boxes:

Quick Prep: With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip this up in no time.
Cozy Flavors: Each spoonful envelops you in warmth, like a big hug.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or unexpected guests; everyone loves a good soup.
Versatile Ingredients: Use whatever beans you have on hand or sub in different veggies.
Nourishing and Hearty: Packed with protein and fiber, it’s a wholesome meal that satisfies.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious homemade dish, gather these ingredients:

Ham: Use leftover smoked ham or a meaty ham hock for rich flavor. If you’re vegetarian, try smoked tempeh.
Beans: Dried navy beans are traditional, but feel free to use any beans like pinto or black beans. Canned beans work too—just rinse them!
Onion: A medium onion adds sweetness; yellow or white varieties are ideal.
Carrots: For a hint of natural sweetness and color.
Celery: Fine dice it for crunch and freshness.
Garlic: Minced, to add aromatic depth.
Broth: Chicken or vegetable broth will enhance the soup’s flavor; homemade is best!
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle earthiness while the soup simmers.
Salt and pepper: For seasoning; adjust according to your taste.

Prep and Cook Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes

This recipe may take a bit longer than some quick meals, but the aroma that fills your kitchen as it cooks is well worth it!

How to Make Basic Ham and Bean Soup

Soak the beans: If using dried beans, soak them in water overnight; this softens them and cuts cooking time. If using canned beans, skip to step 2.
Sauté vegetables: In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften, and your kitchen begins to smell heavenly.
Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, allowing those flavors to meld.
Combine broth and ham: Pour in your broth, add the ham, and toss in the drained beans (if using canned). If you soaked your beans, add them along with enough water to cover everything.
Season: Toss in the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper. Let it all come to a gentle boil.
Simmer away: Reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally. As it cooks, the beans will release starches, thickening your soup into a luxurious, creamy texture.
Taste and adjust: Just before serving, taste the soup. Add an extra pinch of salt or pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaf, and voilà!

Tips and Creative Variations

Add a Kick: Spice it up with a dash of cayenne or smoked paprika for an extra layer of warmth.
Herb Heaven: Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley can brighten up the flavors; add them in during the last few minutes of cooking.
Creamy Twist: For a creamier consistency, blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
Vegetable Bonus: Turn this into a veggie-packed dish by adding leafy greens like kale or spinach near the end.

Serving Ideas

Basic Ham and Bean Soup is wonderfully versatile and can be served in various ways:

Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
Offer a side of simple salad dressed with vinaigrette to cut through the soup’s richness.
For a cozy evening, enjoy alongside a glass of red wine or a warm cup of herbal tea.

Imagine gathering around the table, bowls steaming, laughter echoing, and hearts full as you enjoy this delicious meal together.

Storing and Reheating

Storing: Allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep in the fridge for 3-4 days.
Freezing: This soup freezes beautifully! Just portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers and enjoy it within 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating: Gently reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of water or broth if it thickens too much.

Pro Tips for Success

Meal Prep: This soup tastes even better the next day, making it perfect for meal prep.
Ham Alternatives: If ham isn’t your thing, try turkey or even bacon for a smoky flavor.
Season Gradually: Always taste as you go to ensure the seasoning is just right for your palate.
Keep It Simple: Don’t stress too much about precision; this recipe is forgiving and flexible.

FAQs

Can I freeze this recipe?
Yes! Basic Ham and Bean Soup freezes well for up to 3 months.
What’s the best substitute for ham?
You can use smoked turkey legs or a vegetarian smoked alternative for a similar flavor profile.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze for long-term storage.

Conclusion

There’s something undeniably special about enjoying a bowl of Basic Ham and Bean Soup. It’s more than just a meal—it’s a moment, a memory, a gathering. This easy and comforting recipe invites everyone to savor hearty flavors and create connections around the table. I hope you’ll bring this dish into your home and share it with your loved ones, just like I have. So, roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and let the kitchen come alive with the delightful aroma of this family favorite!

Contents

1 Basic Ham and Bean Soup

Basic Ham and Bean Soup

A comforting and hearty soup made with ham, beans, and vegetables, perfect for chilly evenings or gatherings.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10

Cook Time 1 10

Total Time 1 20

Course Main Course, Soup

Cuisine American

Servings 6 servings

Calories 300 kcal

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 lb smoked ham or ham hock leftover smoked ham or a meaty ham hock for rich flavor; smoked tempeh for vegetarian option
1 cup dried navy beans or substitute with pinto or black beans; canned beans can be used too
1 medium onion yellow or white varieties for sweetness
2 medium carrots adds sweetness and color
2 stalks celery finely diced for crunch
2 cloves garlic minced for aromatic depth
4 cups broth chicken or vegetable broth; homemade is best
1 leaf bay leaf for flavor
to taste salt and pepper for seasoning

Instructions

Preparation

Soak the beans in water overnight if using dried; skip if using canned.
In a large pot, heat a little oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté for about 5 minutes until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Pour in the broth, add the ham, and toss in the drained beans (if using canned). If using soaked beans, add them with enough water to cover.
Add the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper. Bring to a gentle boil.
Reduce heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Taste and adjust seasoning before serving. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Notes

For variation, spice it up with cayenne or smoked paprika, or add fresh herbs like thyme for brightness. This soup freezes beautifully; just portion it and store in airtight containers.

Keyword Bean Soup, Comfort Food, Cozy Recipes, Ham Soup, Hearty Soup