Ham and Bean Soup
This Ham and Bean Soup is a comforting, nourishing one-pot meal that brings family together with its deep, savory flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 cups dried navy beans or great northern beans, soaked overnight (or 3 cans, rinsed) Beans are the heart of the soup.
- 1 to 1.5 pounds smoked ham hock or leftover ham bone with meat Brings deep, smoky richness.
- 1 large yellow onion, diced Adds sweetness.
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced For color and gentle sweetness.
- 2 stalks celery, chopped Classic base for soup.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced Aromatic lift.
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth) Adjust for preferred saltiness.
- 2 leaves bay leaves Subtle herbal warmth.
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme Earthy notes.
- to taste Salt and black pepper Finish to your liking.
- 2 cups chopped kale or Swiss chard (optional) A green boost.
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice Brightens the final bowl.
Instructions
Preparation
- If using dried beans, rinse and soak them overnight, or use the quick-soak method: cover with water, boil 2 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour. Drain.
- In a large Dutch oven, sweat the onion, carrots, and celery in a splash of olive oil over medium heat until softened and fragrant.
- Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Cooking
- Stir in the beans, ham hock, bay leaves, thyme, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover partially and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours for dried beans, or 30–40 minutes for canned, until beans are tender and the meat pulls off the bone.
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return most of it to the pot. Discard the bone and bay leaves.
- If using greens, stir them in and simmer for 5 more minutes until wilted.
- Finish with apple cider vinegar or lemon juice and adjust salt and pepper. Serve piping hot.
Notes
For a thicker, stew-like texture, mash a cup of beans against the side of the pot and stir. This transforms the broth into a silky, hearty sauce. This recipe is a template for personalization with available pantry items.