Are you looking for a hearty and delicious meal that is both satisfying and simple to make? Look no further than this easy bean and ham soup recipe. Packed with nutritious ingredients, this soup is not only a tasty option but also a great way to use up leftover ham. In this article, we will guide you through the steps of making this mouth-watering dish, sharing tips and tricks along the way.
Gathering the Ingredients
To get started on your easy bean and ham soup, you will need to gather the necessary ingredients. The key components include canned beans, chopped ham, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, herbs, and spices. While the recipe calls for canned beans for convenience, you can also use dried beans if you prefer. Just be sure to soak them overnight before cooking.
Preparing the Soup
Once you have all your ingredients ready, it’s time to start preparing your easy bean and ham soup. Begin by sautéing the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a large pot with some olive oil until they become tender. This step helps release their flavors before adding in the other ingredients.
Next, add in your chopped ham and stir it into the vegetable mixture. The smoky flavor of the ham will infuse into the soup as it simmers. Then pour in your chicken broth along with any additional water or stock if needed to reach your desired consistency.
Now it’s time to add in your canned or soaked beans. If using canned beans, be sure to drain and rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the pot. If using soaked beans instead, drain off any excess water from soaking.
Simmering for Flavor
With all of your ingredients combined in the pot, turn up the heat until it reaches a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for about 30 minutes to an hour. This simmering process allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a rich and savory soup.
While the soup is simmering, feel free to add in any herbs and spices that you enjoy. Common choices include bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, paprika, or even a dash of hot sauce for some extra heat. Just remember to taste as you go and adjust the seasonings according to your preference.
Serving and Enjoying
Once your easy bean and ham soup has finished simmering, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with some fresh herbs or grated cheese if desired. This dish pairs well with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for future meals. The flavors will continue to develop over time, making each reheated bowl just as delicious as the first.
In conclusion, making an easy bean and ham soup is both simple and satisfying. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can create a flavorful meal that will please both your taste buds and your wallet. So why not give this recipe a try? Your family will thank you for it.
This text was generated using a large language model, and select text has been reviewed and moderated for purposes such as readability.
