There’s just something about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening that wraps you up like a cozy blanket. My favorite, hands down, is ham and white bean soup. I remember the first time I made it; the wind was howling outside, and I was curled up in my kitchen, the rich aroma filling the air. It’s a recipe I’ve perfected over the years, and trust me, it’s a hug in a bowl! The combination of savory ham and creamy white beans creates a heartiness that’s just perfect for those cold days. Plus, it’s so simple to whip up; you’ll feel like a culinary genius with minimal effort!

ham and white bean soup - detail 1

Ingredients

Gathering the right ingredients is half the fun! Here’s what you’ll need for my cozy ham and white bean soup:

1 cup diced ham – the star of the show; leftover ham works wonders here!
2 cups white beans, soaked and drained – these add that creamy texture.
1 onion, chopped – for a sweet and savory base.
2 carrots, diced – they bring a lovely sweetness.
2 celery stalks, diced – for that classic soup flavor.
4 cups chicken broth – the liquid gold that ties it all together.
2 cloves garlic, minced – because garlic makes everything better!
1 teaspoon thyme – a touch of herbaceous goodness.
1 bay leaf – for a hint of depth.
Salt and pepper to taste – essential for bringing out all those flavors.

How to Prepare Ham and White Bean Soup

Making this ham and white bean soup is a breeze, and the best part? It fills your home with that irresistible, cozy aroma! Let’s dive into how to whip this up in no time; trust me, you’ll have a delicious meal ready before you know it.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add a splash of oil if you like, then toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Sauté these veggies until they soften up, about 5-7 minutes. This is where the magic begins!
Next, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. The smell will be heavenly! Just be careful not to burn the garlic—it can turn bitter.
Now, stir in the diced ham and those beautiful white beans. Pour in the chicken broth, followed by the thyme and bay leaf. Yes, let that all come together!
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about an hour. This is where all those flavors meld into something amazing.
Finally, season with salt and pepper to taste right before serving. Give it a good stir, and you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of warmth!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick preparation – you can have this delicious soup ready in just over an hour!
Hearty flavor – the combination of savory ham and creamy white beans makes every spoonful satisfying.
Health benefits – packed with protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
Comforting and warming – perfect for chilly days when you need a cozy pick-me-up.
Versatile and simple – easily adjust ingredients based on what you have on hand.
Leftover friendly – a great way to use up any leftover ham and create new flavors!

Tips for Success

To make sure your ham and white bean soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some of my favorite tips! First, don’t shy away from using leftover ham; it adds so much depth and flavor! If you want to enhance the taste even more, consider sautéing the ham for a few minutes before adding the rest of the ingredients—trust me, it’s worth it! Also, adjust the seasonings to your liking; a pinch of smoked paprika can give it a nice kick. Lastly, make sure to taste and adjust the salt and pepper before serving—every batch can be a little different!

Variations

The beauty of this ham and white bean soup is how adaptable it is! You can easily switch things up based on what you have on hand or what you’re in the mood for. Feel free to add in some diced potatoes for extra heartiness or throw in a handful of spinach or kale for a pop of color and nutrition. If you’re craving a little heat, toss in a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños. You could even experiment with different herbs, like rosemary or parsley, to give it your unique twist. The possibilities are endless, so get creative!

Nutritional Information

Each serving of this delicious ham and white bean soup is approximately 250 calories, with 6 grams of fat and 18 grams of protein. It also packs in 30 grams of carbohydrates and 8 grams of fiber, making it a nutritious option for any meal. Keep in mind, these values are estimates, so adjust as needed!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

If you happen to have leftovers (which is often the case because it’s so delicious!), storing your ham and white bean soup is a breeze. Just let it cool down a bit, then transfer it to an airtight container and pop it in the fridge; it’ll keep well for about 4-5 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it! Just make sure to use freezer-safe containers and leave a little space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge. To reheat, warm it gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it’s heated through. You might want to add a splash of broth or water if it looks a bit thick. Enjoy that comforting soup again!

FAQ Section

Got questions about my ham and white bean soup? I’ve got answers! First off, can you freeze it? Absolutely! Just make sure to store it in airtight containers, and it’ll be good in the freezer for up to 3 months. As for ingredient substitutions, if you don’t have white beans, feel free to swap in kidney beans or even lentils! And if you’re looking to cut down on sodium, use low-sodium chicken broth. Another common question is about thickening the soup; you can blend a portion of it for a creamier texture or add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Enjoy your cooking adventure!

For more delicious soup recipes, check out this collection!

Also, if you’re interested in the health benefits of beans, you can read more here.