White Bean Soup with Ham

White Bean Soup with Ham Recipe - USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 15 minutes | Cooking time: 1 hour and 15 minutes | Servings: 6

Introduction

White Bean Soup with Ham is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cold winter day. This recipe combines the rich flavors of ham with the creamy texture of white beans to create a delicious and satisfying meal.

History

White Bean Soup with Ham is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It is believed to have originated in the southern United States, where ham and beans are staple ingredients in many traditional recipes. This soup is often served as a main course or as a side dish with cornbread or biscuits.

Ingredients

1 ham bone or 2 or 3 smoked ham hocks
3 cups navy, pea, or other dried white beans, washed and picked over
0.5 cup chicken, beef, or vegetable stock, or water
2 medium onions, quartered
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
minced fresh parsley leaves for garnish

How to prepare

Place the ham bone, beans, and stock or water in a large saucepan or casserole over medium-high heat. Add the onions.
Once it starts boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and partially cover.
Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very soft and the meat is falling off the bone. This should take at least 1 hour.
Turn off the heat and let the bone cool slightly. Remove the bone from the pot.
Take all the meat off the bone, chop it, and set it aside.
Mash or puree the beans, then return them to the pot along with the ham.
Reheat the mixture, season to taste, garnish, and serve.

Variations

Add diced carrots, celery, or tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.
Use smoked ham or bacon instead of ham hocks for a different flavor profile.
Add a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for a tangy kick.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and improve their texture.

- Adding a bay leaf or a sprig of thyme to the soup while it simmers can enhance the flavor.

- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before adding the ham back in.

- Adjust the seasoning to taste, adding more salt or pepper as needed.

Serving Suggestions

White Bean Soup with Ham can be served as a main course with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. It can also be served as a side dish with a salad or grilled vegetables.

Cooking Techniques

Simmering the soup slowly allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to become tender.

- Pureeing some of the beans creates a creamy texture without the need for cream or butter.

Ingredient Substitutions

Cannellini beans or Great Northern beans can be used in place of navy or white beans.

- Chicken or vegetable broth can be used instead of water for added flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

White Bean Soup with Ham can be made ahead of time and reheated before serving. It can also be frozen for later use.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the soup with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for a pop of color and flavor.

Pairing Recommendations

White Bean Soup with Ham pairs well with a crisp green salad, a glass of white wine, or a slice of crusty bread.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover White Bean Soup with Ham can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of White Bean Soup with Ham contains approximately 250 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of White Bean Soup with Ham contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of White Bean Soup with Ham contains approximately 5 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of White Bean Soup with Ham contains approximately 20 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

White beans are a good source of vitamins and minerals, including iron, potassium, and folate.

Alergens

This recipe contains pork (ham), which may be an allergen for some individuals.

Summary

White Bean Soup with Ham is a nutritious and filling dish that is high in protein and fiber. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a meal.

Summary

White Bean Soup with Ham is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a cozy meal at home. With simple ingredients and easy preparation, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.

How did I get this recipe?

I vividly recall the moment I first laid eyes on this recipe for White Bean Soup with Ham. It was a cold winter day, and I had just returned from a trip to visit my dear friend Martha in the countryside. Martha was an excellent cook, and I always loved spending time in her cozy kitchen, watching her work her magic with fresh ingredients and old family recipes.

On this particular visit, Martha had prepared a delicious pot of White Bean Soup with Ham for lunch. The aroma of the simmering soup filled the air, and I couldn't wait to taste it. As I sat down at the table, Martha served me a steaming bowl of the soup, along with a slice of homemade bread. One spoonful of the soup was all it took for me to fall in love with the dish. The creamy white beans, tender chunks of ham, and flavorful broth were a perfect combination of flavors and textures.

I asked Martha for the recipe, and she happily obliged, handing me a well-worn index card with her handwritten instructions. I carefully copied down the ingredients and steps, making sure to capture every detail. As I read through the recipe, I realized that it was a simple yet satisfying dish, perfect for a cold winter day or any time I wanted a comforting meal.

When I returned home, I couldn't wait to make the White Bean Soup with Ham for my own family. I gathered the ingredients – dried white beans, a meaty ham bone, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and a few herbs and spices – and set to work in my own kitchen. I soaked the beans overnight, then cooked them with the ham bone until they were tender and creamy. In a separate pot, I sautéed the vegetables until they were soft and fragrant, then added them to the pot with the beans and ham.

As the soup simmered on the stove, filling the house with its comforting aroma, I thought back to my time with Martha and how much I had enjoyed learning from her. She had taught me so much about cooking – not just about recipes and techniques, but about the joy and satisfaction that came from preparing a meal with love and care.

When the soup was ready, I ladled out steaming bowls for my family, just as Martha had done for me. The first spoonful brought back memories of that cold winter day in Martha's kitchen, and I knew that this recipe would become a beloved favorite in our home.

Over the years, I have made White Bean Soup with Ham many times, each time tweaking the recipe slightly to suit my family's tastes. Sometimes I add a splash of cream for extra richness, or a handful of fresh herbs for a burst of flavor. No matter how I adapt the recipe, though, the heart of it remains the same – a simple, comforting dish that brings warmth and nourishment to those who enjoy it.

I am grateful to Martha for sharing her recipe with me, and for inspiring me to explore the world of cooking and create delicious meals for my loved ones. As I continue to cook and share this recipe with others, I hope that it brings them as much joy and satisfaction as it has brought me. Cooking is more than just a practical skill – it is a way to connect with others, express love and creativity, and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly grateful.