Black Bean and Ham Soup
A comforting and hearty soup made with black beans, diced ham, and aromatic spices, perfect for cozy family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced Leftover ham from a holiday feast works beautifully.
- 1 medium onion, diced Sweet onions add a fantastic depth of flavor.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Because who can resist that garlicky goodness?
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth A flavorful base; you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
- 2 cans (15 oz each) black beans, rinsed and drained Rich in protein and fiber.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes Use fire-roasted for a smoky twist!
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin For that warm undertone.
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika To lift the flavors to a new level.
- Salt and pepper to taste Essential for balancing the flavors.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional) A bright garnish that adds a pop of freshness.
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Toss in the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant.
- Add the diced ham to the pot. Stir it in, letting the pieces caramelize slightly for about 3 minutes.
- Add the chicken broth, black beans, and diced tomatoes. Give it a good stir to combine.
- Sprinkle in the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer gently for 20 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning. If you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle in some chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and enjoy the warmth of your creation!
Notes
This soup is fantastic for meal prep! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.