A comforting and flavorful soup made with navy beans, ham, and a medley of vegetables. Perfect for cold days or when you need a satisfying, wholesome meal.
Preparation Time:
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Total Time: 2 hours 20 minutes
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) 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 (2 liters) chicken broth
- 1 lb (450 g) cooked ham, diced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans:
- Rinse the dried navy beans under cold water and remove any debris.
- Place the beans in a large bowl, cover with water, and soak overnight. Drain and rinse before using.
- Sauté the Vegetables:
- Heat olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
- Add diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until tender.
- Add Garlic:
- Stir in minced garlic and sauté for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
- Combine Ingredients:
- Pour in chicken broth and add soaked navy beans, diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
- Cook the Soup:
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender.
- Season and Serve:
- Remove bay leaves and season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve warm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.
- Serve alongside a simple green salad for a balanced lunch or dinner.
- Top with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan or croutons for extra flavor.
Cooking Tips
- If short on time, use canned navy beans instead of dried. Rinse and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- For a thicker soup, use a potato masher or immersion blender to mash some of the beans directly in the pot.
- Adjust the seasoning at the end of cooking as ham and chicken broth can vary in saltiness.
Nutritional Benefits
- Navy Beans: High in fiber, protein, and essential nutrients like iron and magnesium.
- Ham: Adds protein and a savory depth of flavor.
- Vegetables: Provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Dietary Information
- Gluten-free
- High in protein and fiber
Nutritional Facts (Per Serving – Approx. 6 servings):
- Calories: 280
- Protein: 20 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 36 g
- Fiber: 10 g
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. Thaw and reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- A hearty, wholesome soup that’s easy to make and perfect for meal prep.
- Packed with protein, fiber, and vegetables for a nutritious meal.
- Comforting and flavorful, ideal for cold weather or a satisfying dinner.
- Simple ingredients that come together to create a classic, crowd-pleasing dish.
Conclusion
This Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Soup is a nutritious and delicious meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Packed with tender beans, savory ham, and flavorful vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that will warm you up and leave you feeling satisfied. Whether enjoyed with bread or on its own, this classic soup is sure to become a family favorite.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Yes, use canned navy beans. Rinse and add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
- Can I make this soup vegetarian? Yes, omit the ham and use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- How can I make the soup thicker? Mash some of the beans in the pot with a potato masher or use an immersion blender.
- Can I use other types of beans? Yes, great northern beans or cannellini beans work well.
- Can I cook this in a slow cooker? Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or high for 4–5 hours.
- How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 3 months.
- What’s a good substitute for ham? Use smoked sausage, turkey ham, or even diced cooked bacon.
- Can I add other vegetables? Yes, potatoes, zucchini, or spinach can be added during the cooking process.
- How do I reduce the saltiness? Use low-sodium chicken broth and rinse the ham before adding it to the soup.
- What’s the best way to reheat the soup? Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, or microwave in a microwave-safe container.
Enjoy this warm, hearty soup for a comforting and satisfying meal!