Add Garlic and Ham:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Add the diced ham to the pot, allowing it to lightly brown for about 3-4 minutes.
Add Beans and Liquids:
Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the drained white beans. Stir in the dried thyme and bay leaf. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Simmer the Soup:
Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 30-40 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally and adjust seasoning as needed.
Finish and Serve:
Remove the bay leaf from the soup. If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to blend a small portion of the soup, or mash some of the beans with a spoon. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips for Serving and Storing:
Serving Suggestions:
Serve your hearty ham and white bean soup with a side of warm, crusty bread or cornbread to soak up every bit of the flavorful broth. A dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese also makes a great topping.
Storing Leftovers:
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This soup tends to taste even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a little more broth if necessary to thin the soup.
Freezing:
This soup freezes very well! Let it cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Variants:
Vegetarian Version:
Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor that ham provides.
Spicy Ham and White Bean Soup:
For those who enjoy a bit of heat, add a diced jalapeño or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup. This will give the soup an extra layer of warmth and spice.
Slow Cooker Method:
If you prefer the convenience of a slow cooker, you can easily make this soup by adding all the ingredients (except the fresh parsley) to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Before serving, remove the bay leaf and stir in the parsley.
Add Greens:
For an added boost of nutrition, you can stir in some fresh spinach or kale towards the end of the cooking time. Let it wilt into the soup for a colorful and healthy touch.
FAQ:
1. Can I use canned ham instead of cooked ham?
Yes, canned ham can be used as a substitute, but it may have a different texture and flavor. It’s best to drain and rinse the canned ham before adding it to the soup.
2. Can I use other types of beans?
While white beans (like cannellini or great northern) are traditional for this soup, you can substitute other beans such as navy beans or even kidney beans. Each will give the soup a slightly different texture and flavor.
3. How can I make the soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup, or mash some of the beans with a potato masher. Alternatively, you can reduce the liquid by simmering the soup longer.
4. Can I make this soup without beans?
Yes, you can make a bean-free version by using potatoes or adding more vegetables such as corn, peas, or squash to create a hearty, vegetable-filled soup.
5. Can I use frozen ham in this recipe?
Absolutely! If you have leftover ham in your freezer, simply thaw it and dice it before adding it to the soup. It will work just as well as fresh ham.
Conclusion:
Hearty Ham and White Bean Soup is the perfect combination of rich flavors, comforting textures, and simplicity. Whether you make it with leftover ham or fresh ingredients, it’s a versatile recipe that can be adapted to suit your preferences. This soup is sure to satisfy your hunger and warm you up on even the coldest of days. With a handful of ingredients, a little bit of time, and a lot of love, you’ll have a pot of soul-satisfying soup ready to enjoy. Perfect for a cozy family meal or to share with friends, this dish is a true comfort food classic.
ADVERTISEMENT
