Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

The aroma of simmering White Bean and Ham Soup wafts through the kitchen, wrapping you in a warm embrace. Rich with savory ham, tender beans, and a medley of vegetables, this soup is the perfect antidote to a chilly day.

Picture yourself cozying up on the couch, spoon in hand, ready to dive into a bowl of comfort. This simple yet hearty dish is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings back memories of family gatherings and cozy evenings. For more inspiration, check out this main dish recipes recipe.

I still remember the first time I made this soup for my family—everyone went back for seconds, leaving no spoon unturned.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• White Beans: Use canned or dried beans; if using dried, soak them overnight for best results.

• Smoked Ham Hock: Adds depth and flavor; look for one with good meat content.

• Carrots: Fresh carrots bring sweetness; chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking. For more inspiration, check out this cooking tips recipe.

• Celery: Adds crunch and flavor; use crisp stalks for the best texture.

• Onion: A staple for aromatic base; finely chop to enhance sweetness during cooking.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves infuse a lovely aroma; mince them finely to release their flavor.

• Bay Leaves: Use 1-2 leaves; remove before serving to avoid bitterness.

• Chicken Broth: Opt for low-sodium broth to control saltiness while adding richness.

• Olive Oil: A splash helps sauté the veggies; choose extra virgin for robust flavor.

• Black Pepper and Salt: Seasoning essentials; adjust according to your taste preference.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Let’s Make it together

Sauté the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the onions turn translucent and release their sweet aroma.

Add the Garlic and Ham Hock : Toss in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then add the smoked ham hock to impart rich flavor throughout the soup.

Add Beans and Broth : Pour in your white beans along with chicken broth. Stir well to combine all those delicious flavors together—this is where magic begins!

Add Bay Leaves and Seasoning : Throw in bay leaves along with salt and pepper according to taste preferences. The leaves will infuse their unique flavor while simmering away.

Simmer Away!: Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat. Let it simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes until the beans are tender and flavors meld beautifully.

Taste Test & Adjust : Finally, give your soup a taste! Adjust seasoning if necessary—maybe a pinch more salt or pepper? Remove bay leaves before serving; they’re not meant for chewing!

Now that you’ve mastered this delightful White Bean and Ham Soup recipe, gather your loved ones around the table! Enjoy every comforting spoonful as laughter fills the air—it’s what good food does best!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing onions and garlic for depth, then add ham and beans while simmering gently. This sequence enhances flavor and texture beautifully.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap in kale or spinach for added nutrition, or use different beans based on your pantry. Experimentation is encouraged!

Storing & Reheating

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days. Reheat on the stove over low heat until warm, stirring occasionally.

My friend once said this soup saved her from a week of frozen dinners. She whipped it up in no time, impressing guests while keeping her sanity intact!

FAQ

Can I use dried beans instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just soak them overnight and adjust cooking time accordingly.

What can I substitute for ham?

Try smoked turkey or a vegetarian protein like tempeh for a lighter option.

How do I thicken my soup?

Mash some beans with a fork or blend a portion of the soup for creaminess.