In the cold, unforgiving winter months, there's nothing quite like a bowl of hearty, homemade soup to bring warmth and cheer to your table. Hearty Ham and Beans is a classic dish that combines simple ingredients into a symphony of flavors, providing comfort and nourishment. This timeless recipe not only soothes the soul but is incredibly budget-friendly and packed with nutrients, making it a staple for any home cook's recipe book.
Understanding Ham and Beans
Before we dive into the recipes, let's understand why ham and beans make such a comforting meal:
- Protein-Rich: Beans are an excellent source of protein, making this dish ideal for vegetarians when combined with ham for those not following a meatless diet.
- Economical: Both ham and beans are affordable, allowing you to feed a family or a large gathering without breaking the bank.
- Versatile: You can adjust flavors with various spices, herbs, or even different types of beans to suit your taste.
- Nutritious: Beans are high in fiber, vitamins, and minerals, promoting health and wellness.
Classic Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans
- 1 ham bone or ham hock
- 1 cup chopped ham
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 3 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 6 cups chicken broth or water
Steps:
- Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before use.
- In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, ham bone, ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and broth.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2-3 hours until beans are tender.
- Remove the ham bone or hock, shred any remaining meat and return it to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired.
🌟 Note: For a creamier texture, blend a portion of the soup or use an immersion blender.
Instant Pot Ham and Beans
If you're pressed for time, the Instant Pot can come to the rescue:
Ingredients:
- Same ingredients as the Classic Recipe
Steps:
- Soak the beans for at least 1 hour, rinse, and drain.
- Add beans, ham bone or hock, chopped ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme into the Instant Pot.
- Pour in the broth.
- Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 45 minutes.
- Allow for natural pressure release for 15 minutes, then release any remaining pressure manually.
- Remove and shred meat from the bone, return to the pot, season, and serve.
Tables for Nutritional Information
| Ingredient | Calories (per cup) | Protein (g) | Fiber (g) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Navy Beans | 255 | 15 | 19.4 |
| Ham (chopped) | 240 | 20.2 | 0 |
Variation: Smoky Ham and Black-Eyed Peas
For a twist, try using black-eyed peas with this comforting recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried black-eyed peas
- Other ingredients as per the Classic Recipe
Steps:
- Soak black-eyed peas as you would the navy beans. Proceed with the Classic or Instant Pot method.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika for that extra smoky flavor, or use a piece of smoked ham hock.
- Serve with cornbread for a complete Southern meal experience.
🔥 Note: Adding a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper can give your soup an extra kick.
The Ham and Bean soup, in its various forms, offers a delightful way to warm up during the colder months. It's not just about the comfort; it's about enjoying a meal that's easy to prepare, nutritious, and loved by many. Whether you're cooking for one, feeding a family, or preparing for a gathering, this dish is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. With the versatility of beans, the smokiness of ham, and the depth of flavors, there's always a new way to enjoy this classic comfort food.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
+
Yes, you can use canned beans. Just remember to drain and rinse them to reduce sodium content, and reduce the cooking time since canned beans are already cooked.
What can I substitute for the ham hock?
+
If you don’t have a ham hock, you can use smoked turkey wings or legs for a similar flavor, or increase the amount of chopped ham.
How do I store leftovers?
+
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months.
