Hearty Bean and Ham Soup Recipe
A rich, comforting soup packed with tender beans, smoky ham, and vegetables. Perfect for cold days and family dinners.
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
1 hour 45 minutes
Total Time
2 hours
Servings
6–8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups mixed dried beans (navy beans, kidney beans, pinto beans, or white beans)
- 250g (9 oz) smoked ham, diced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 6 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Rinse the dried beans thoroughly and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before cooking.
Step 2: Cook the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ham
Stir in the diced smoked ham and cook for 3–4 minutes to release its smoky flavor.
Step 4: Build the Soup
Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, water, tomato paste, bay leaf, thyme, paprika, black pepper, and salt.
Mix well until combined.
Step 5: Simmer
Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover partially, and simmer for 1½ hours, stirring occasionally.
Cook until the beans are tender and the broth becomes rich and flavorful.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Stir in the fresh parsley and serve hot with crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Bean Soup
- For extra smoky flavor, use a ham bone while simmering.
- Add a pinch of chili flakes for a spicy kick.
- The soup tastes even better the next day.
- Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freeze for up to 3 months.
Nutrition (Approximate Per Serving)
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 22g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fat: 11g
- Fiber: 9g
SEO Description
This Hearty Bean and Ham Soup is a delicious one-pot comfort meal made with mixed beans, smoked ham, fresh vegetables, and aromatic herbs. Easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and perfect for cozy family dinners. 🍲✨
Viral Title Ideas
- The Best Old-Fashioned Bean and Ham Soup
- Easy One-Pot Bean Soup with Smoked Ham
- Comfort Food Classic: Hearty Bean Soup Recipe
- Rustic Bean and Ham Soup Everyone Loves
- Cozy Homemade Bean Soup for Cold Days