How to Make Ham and Navy Bean Soup: A Hearty and Delicious Recipe
Ham and navy bean soup is a classic American comfort food dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cold winter’s day. This recipe combines the rich flavor of smoked ham with the creamy texture of navy beans, creating a hearty and satisfying soup that’s sure to warm your belly and your heart. In this article, we’ll walk you through the simple steps to make a delicious ham and navy bean soup.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked ham, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound smoked bacon, diced
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 cups water
Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Ham and Bacon
- In a large Dutch oven or pot, cook the diced ham and bacon over medium heat until browned, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the ham and bacon from the pot and set aside. Leave the drippings in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot and cook until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add the browned ham and bacon back to the pot.
Step 3: Add the Navy Beans and Liquid
- Add the soaked and drained navy beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
Step 4: Thicken the Soup
- In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar and flour.
- Stir the mixture into the soup and continue to simmer for an additional 30 minutes, or until the soup has thickened slightly.
Step 5: Add Water and Serve
- Add the water to the pot and stir to combine.
- Serve the ham and navy bean soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley or thyme, if desired.
Tips and Variations
- Use leftover ham or cooked ham hocks to make the soup even heartier.
- Add a splash of vinegar or a pinch of cayenne pepper to give the soup a tangy kick.
- Substitute canned navy beans with dried navy beans for a more rustic texture.
- Make the soup ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for up to 3 days.
Nutrition Information
- Serving size: 1 cup
- Calories: 350
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated fat: 8g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 20g
Table: Nutritional Information per Serving
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 350 |
| Fat | 18g |
| Saturated fat | 8g |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Carbohydrates | 25g |
| Fiber | 6g |
| Protein | 20g |
In conclusion, ham and navy bean soup is a comforting and delicious recipe that’s perfect for a chilly day. By following these simple steps and using high-quality ingredients, you’ll be able to create a hearty and satisfying soup that’s sure to become a family favorite. So next time you’re looking for a warm and comforting meal, give this recipe a try!
