How to Make Navy Bean Soup with Ham: A Hearty and Delicious Recipe
Navy bean soup with ham is a classic comfort food dish that is both easy to make and packed with flavor. This recipe is a staple in many households, especially during the winter months when a warm and nourishing bowl of soup is just what’s needed to brighten up the day. In this article, we’ll take you through the simple steps to make a delicious navy bean soup with ham that’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound smoked ham hocks or 1/2 pound diced smoked ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried bay leaves
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 carrots, chopped (optional)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Ham
If using ham hocks, simmer them in water for 30 minutes to loosen the meat from the bone. Then, remove the hocks from the water and set them aside. If using diced smoked ham, you can skip this step.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Liquid
Add the soaked and drained navy beans, thyme, bay leaves, salt, and pepper to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and water, and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Soup
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the soup for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender. If using ham hocks, add them back to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking. If using diced smoked ham, add it to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool slightly. Use two forks to mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the soup. Add the chopped carrots and celery, if using, and stir to combine.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs, if desired. You can also serve it with a swirl of cream or a side of crusty bread for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Tips and Variations:
- Use leftover ham: If you have leftover ham from a holiday dinner, you can use it in place of the smoked ham hocks or diced smoked ham.
- Add some spice: For an extra kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes to the soup.
- Make it a one-pot meal: Add some diced potatoes, diced bell peppers, or chopped kale to the pot for a hearty and filling one-pot meal.
- Freeze it: This soup freezes well, so feel free to make a batch and store it in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Nutrition Information:
Per serving (serves 6-8):
- Calories: 220
- Fat: 10g
- Saturated Fat: 2.5g
- Cholesterol: 20mg
- Sodium: 450mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 15g
Conclusion:
Navy bean soup with ham is a classic comfort food dish that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. With its hearty and nourishing ingredients, it’s a perfect meal for a chilly winter day. By following these simple steps and tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying bowl of navy bean soup with ham that’s sure to become a family favorite.
