Wild Eats & Treats!

Delicious Smoked Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

If you’re looking for a heartwarming, flavorful soup to delight your taste buds and nourish your body, this Smoked Ham and Bean Soup is an absolute must-try! Packed with protein, fiber, and smoky goodness, this wholesome dish is perfect for chilly evenings or a comforting lunch. Plus, it’s an incredible way to use up leftover ham. Let’s dive straight into making this delightful, easy-to-prepare soup!

Ingredients

• 2 cups smoked ham, diced
• 1 cup dried white beans (such as cannellini or navy), rinsed and soaked overnight
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Prepping the Beans

After soaking the beans overnight, drain and rinse them under cold water. This will ensure they cook evenly and reduce any indigestible sugars that can cause discomfort.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the carrots and celery, cooking for another 3-4 minutes until they begin to soften.

Step 3: Simmer the Soup

Add the soaked beans, diced smoked ham, chicken broth, bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir everything well to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for approximately 60-80 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.

Step 4: Final Seasoning

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and more pepper, if needed. Remember, smoked ham can be salty, so be cautious with any added salt. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Once the soup is ready, ladle it into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Recipe Summary

• Servings: 6
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes (excluding bean soaking time)
• Cooking Time: 90 minutes
• Total Time: 100 minutes

Nutritional Information (per serving)

• Calories: Approximately 300 kcal

This Smoked Ham and Bean Soup recipe is not only comforting and delicious but also packed with nutrients to keep you satisfied. Perfect for a family meal or meal prep, it’s a healthy choice that doesn’t compromise on flavor. Enjoy this rich, hearty soup and share it with loved ones for a warming, gratifying meal!