This hearty navy bean soup with ham is a comforting, flavorful dish that turns simple ingredients into a deeply satisfying meal. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a filling lunch, this soup combines tender navy beans with savory ham and a medley of vegetables. The rich, aromatic broth is enhanced by bay leaves and thyme, creating a soup that’s not only nourishing but also packed with robust flavors. Ideal for meal prepping or serving a crowd, this recipe promises a cozy, heartwarming experience with every bowl.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

For the Soup:

• 1 lb (450 g) dried navy beans – These small, white beans are perfect for soups due to their creamy texture when cooked.
• 1 tbsp olive oil – Used to sauté the vegetables, adding richness to the soup.
• 1 large onion, diced – Adds a foundational layer of flavor.
• 3 medium carrots, peeled and diced – Provides sweetness and texture.
• 3 ribs celery, diced – Adds crunch and depth.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 8 cups (1.9 liters) chicken broth – The base liquid, which can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
• 1 lb (450 g) cooked ham, diced – Adds a smoky, savory element.
• 2 bay leaves – Infuses the soup with a subtle, aromatic flavor.
• 1 tsp dried thyme – Adds a herby note to complement the bay leaves.
• Salt and black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning and balancing flavors.
• Fresh parsley, for garnish (optional) – Adds a fresh touch and a splash of color.

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:

• Rinse and sort the beans: Begin by rinsing the dried navy beans under cold water. Inspect them to remove any debris or damaged beans.
• Soak the beans: You can either soak the beans overnight in a large bowl of water or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit, covered, for 1 hour. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.

2. Cook the Vegetables:

• Heat the olive oil: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
• Sauté the onion: Add the diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
• Add carrots and celery: Stir in the diced carrots and celery. Cook for an additional 5 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.
• Incorporate garlic: Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, just until fragrant.

3. Combine Ingredients:

• Add beans and broth: Stir in the soaked and drained navy beans. Pour in the chicken broth and mix well.
• Add ham and seasonings: Incorporate the diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme into the pot. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

4. Simmer the Soup:

• Bring to a boil: Increase the heat and bring the soup to a boil.
• Reduce and simmer: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and check the soup’s consistency. If it becomes too thick, add more broth or water as needed.

5. Season and Serve:

• Remove bay leaves: Once the beans are cooked and tender, remove the bay leaves from the pot.
• Season the soup: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed.
• Garnish and serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

FAQs:

1. Can I use canned navy beans instead of dried beans?

• Yes, you can use canned navy beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the soaking step and add the beans during the last 30 minutes of cooking.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

• Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth and omit the ham. You can add extra vegetables or a plant-based protein like tofu or tempeh for added texture and flavor.

3. Can I freeze the soup?

• Yes, this soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat it thoroughly before serving.

4. How can I make this soup spicier?

• For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Adjust according to your heat preference.