Easy Ham and Bean Soup
A cozy and comforting soup that takes leftover ham and pantry staples to create a delightful meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or chilly evenings.
Ingredients
Base Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon Olive oil For sautéing, can substitute with avocado oil.
- 1 medium Yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness.
- 2 medium Carrots, sliced For texture and color.
- 2 stalks Celery, chopped Part of the classic mirepoix base.
- 3 cloves Garlic, minced Fragrance that warms the soul.
- 2 cups Cooked ham, diced Or use a ham bone/ham hock for richer flavor.
- 1.5 cups Dried navy beans or great northern beans, soaked overnight Alternatively, use 3 cans drained for convenience.
- 6 cups Low-sodium chicken or vegetable stock Adjust for preferred thickness.
- 1 leaf Bay leaf Adds subtle herbal note.
- 1 teaspoon Fresh thyme Optional.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper To taste.
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice or apple cider vinegar To brighten the flavors.
- 2 cups Chopped kale or spinach Optional for a healthy option.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse soaked beans and set aside. If using canned, drain and rinse well.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft and fragrant, about 6–8 minutes.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in diced ham and let it toast a little for depth.
- Add beans, stock, bay leaf, and thyme. If using a ham bone, nestle it in now. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce to a simmer.
Cooking
- Simmer uncovered for about 1 hour if using dried soaked beans; or 20–30 minutes for canned beans, until the beans are tender and the broth has thickened slightly.
- If you used a ham bone, remove it, shred any meat back into the pot, and discard bones. Stir in lemon juice or vinegar, and adjust the salt and pepper to taste.
- Add chopped greens in the last 5 minutes of cooking to wilt them gently.
- Serve hot with crusty bread.
Notes
Quick weeknight swap: use canned beans and diced ham to make this a 30-minute dinner. For a creamier texture, mash a cup of beans against the side of the pot and stir. Make it festive by adding a splash of sherry or a pinch of smoked paprika.