This comforting navy bean and ham soup is perfect for a cozy meal. It’s packed with flavor from tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables. Easy to prepare and great for meal prepping, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

 

Full Recipe:

Ingredients

• • 1 lb dried navy beans
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced
  • 3 ribs celery, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 8 cups chicken broth
  • 1 lb cooked ham, diced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Instructions

Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse and Sort: Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and sort out any debris. This ensures that no small stones or damaged beans end up in your soup.
2. Soak: Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let them soak overnight, which helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.

Sauté the Vegetables

3. Heat Oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
4. Sauté Veggies: Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are tender and the onions are translucent, about 5-7 minutes. This step adds depth of flavor to your soup.

Add Garlic

5. Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pot and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Garlic adds a wonderful aroma and enhances the overall flavor.

Combine Ingredients

6. Add Broth and Beans: Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked navy beans. The broth serves as the soup’s base, providing richness and body.
7. Add Ham and Spices: Stir in the diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme. The ham adds a savory, smoky flavor, while the bay leaves and thyme contribute to the soup’s aromatic profile. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

Cook the Soup

8. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot and to ensure even cooking.

Season and Serve

9. Remove Bay Leaves: Before serving, remove the bay leaves from the soup. Bay leaves add flavor during cooking but are not meant to be eaten.
10. Season: Taste the soup and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed, keeping in mind that the ham can be salty.
11. Garnish: If desired, garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a fresh, herby note.

Tips and Variations

• Quick Soak Method: If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method for the beans. Rinse and sort the beans, then place them in a pot with enough water to cover. Bring to a boil and let them boil for 2 minutes. Remove from heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before using. This method helps to soften the beans more quickly.
• Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach for extra flavor and nutrition. These additions can make the soup heartier and more filling.
• Herb Substitutions: Fresh thyme can be used instead of dried thyme. Use 2-3 sprigs of fresh thyme, tied together for easy removal. You can also experiment with other herbs like rosemary or oregano.
• Smoky Flavor: For a smoky flavor, add a smoked ham hock or smoked paprika to the soup. These ingredients will infuse the soup with a delicious smoky depth.

Serving Suggestions

• Crusty Bread: Serve the soup with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal. The bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
• Salad: Pair with a fresh green salad for a light and balanced meal. A simple vinaigrette can complement the rich flavors of the soup.

Storing and Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Freezing: The soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove.

Nutritional Information

This hearty navy bean and ham soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Navy beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals. The addition of vegetables like carrots, celery, and onions provides antioxidants and other nutrients. Using lean ham and a broth base keeps the soup relatively low in fat and calories, making it a healthy choice for any meal.

Conclusion

This navy bean and ham soup is a hearty and delicious option for any time of the year. It’s easy to make, filled with nutritious ingredients, and perfect for feeding a crowd or meal prepping for the week. Enjoy a warm bowl of this comforting soup with your loved ones!