Keep yourself cozy this winter with a hearty bowl of traditional ham and bean soup. It’s a nutritious and affordable meal that everyone in the family will enjoy.
Filled with pieces of tasty ham, vibrant vegetables, and a very flavorful broth, it is both delicious and healthy.
This cozy soup recipe is delicious by itself, but it’s even better when served with a side of soft cornbread.
Whether you have leftover holiday food or a fresh ham hock, this traditional ham and bean soup recipe will be a hit.
List of items needed to make a recipe.
Dried large white beans – I really like these beans because of their taste and form, but there are many other options available, which we will discuss later.
Salted water is used to soak the beans before cooking to make them soft.
Ham hock is what gives soup its tasty broth. Cooked slowly for at least one hour, the ham hock is the most important ingredient on the list.
Carrots and celery are traditional vegetables that are used to give flavor, crunch, and nutrients to dishes.
Onions and garlic are common ingredients used to add flavor to soup broth.
Mustard powder, bay leaves, and white pepper can be added to enhance the taste of the broth. When comparing white pepper and black pepper, keep in mind that white pepper is a bit spicier, while black pepper has a more intense flavor.
Diced ham – for extra ham taste and a great texture.
Which types of beans are suitable for making this ham and bean soup?
For this soup with ham and beans, you can use Great Northern Beans, which have a delicious nutty taste.
On the other hand, cannellini, navy, Boston, pinto, and kidney beans are all good choices.
Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?
Some recipes recommend soaking the beans beforehand because it improves their texture and reduces gas.
For me, I don’t believe it’s needed. I’ve made this soup in two different ways, but I don’t notice a significant difference in how they taste and feel.
Everything gets eaten in the end.
However, if you still want to soak the beans beforehand, go ahead!
Here’s how you can do it:
