Ham and White Bean Soup
White Bean and Ham Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly nights.
This hearty soup combines tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables, delivering warmth in every spoonful.
Perfectly seasoned with Italian herbs and a touch of garlic, this soup is simple to prepare yet bursting with flavor. Pair it with cornbread or crusty bread for a cozy, satisfying meal your family will love.
Ingredients that Make White Bean and Ham Soup Irresistible
Diced ham – Adds a rich, smoky flavor and heartiness to the soup.
Great Northern beans – The creamy base of the soup, bringing a wholesome texture.
Celery and carrots – Offer a subtle sweetness and crunch, balancing the smoky ham.
Sweet onion – Provides a mellow, aromatic foundation to the dish.
Garlic – Infuses depth and warmth into the soup.
Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that enhances the savory profile.
Ground pepper and salt – Elevates the natural flavors of all ingredients.
Olive oil – Helps soften the vegetables and adds a hint of richness.
Water – Keeps the soup light, but feel free to swap with chicken stock for added depth.
How to Make White Bean and Ham Soup: A Simple Overview
Prepare the beans: Rinse thoroughly to remove debris and set aside.
Sauté vegetables: In a stockpot, cook onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil until softened. Add garlic and cook briefly for aromatic depth.
Simmer the base: Combine water, Italian seasoning, and beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer, cooking for two hours until the beans are tender.
Add the ham: Stir in diced ham and seasonings, simmering until flavors meld and beans are fully cooked.
Adjust consistency: Add water or stock as needed, taste, and season to perfection.
Serve hot: Enjoy this soup with a side of your favorite bread.
Tips for the Perfect Bowl of White Bean and Ham Soup
For deeper flavor, substitute chicken stock for water or add a ham bone during cooking. This imparts a smoky richness that’s hard to beat. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a portion of the beans once they are tender.
For a pop of freshness, garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice. This brightens the dish and complements the savory components beautifully.
Storing and Reheating: Keeping the Comfort Alive
Leftovers store wonderfully! Cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to maintain the desired consistency.
Enjoy this White Bean and Ham Soup for a taste of cozy simplicity that never fails to warm the heart.
White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked diced ham
- 3 stalks of celery chopped
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 20 ounces dried Great Northern beans
- 2 teaspoons ground pepper
- 1 medium sweet onion diced
- 8 cups water
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon salt
- 2 carrots diced
Instructions
- Rinse the dried Great Northern beans, discarding any debris or stones. Set aside.
- Heat olive oil in a large stockpot over medium heat. Add the diced onion, celery, and carrots, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds.
- Pour in the water and mix in the Italian seasoning. Add the prepared beans to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover with a lid and cook for approximately 2 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the beans are nearly tender.
- Stir in the cooked ham, salt, and ground pepper. Continue to simmer for 30 to 60 minutes, or until the beans are completely cooked through.
- Adjust the soup’s consistency by adding more water or chicken stock if needed. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper as desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy alongside your favorite cornbread or crusty bread.