Ham and Bean Soup

Here’s a hearty and comforting recipe for Ham and Bean Soup that’s perfect for chilly days!

Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound ham, diced (or leftover ham bone)
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
• 1 bay leaf
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 pound dried white beans (such as Great Northern or Navy beans), rinsed and sorted (or 3 cans of beans, drained and rinsed)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 2 cups kale or spinach (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Sauté Vegetables:
   • In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Ham and Seasonings:
   • Stir in the diced ham, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Cook for a few more minutes to let the flavors meld.
3. Add Broth and Beans:
   • Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add the dried beans (if using dried). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
4. Simmer:
   • Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. If using canned beans, add them in the last 15-20 minutes of cooking.
5. Add Greens (Optional):
   • If using kale or spinach, stir it in during the last 10 minutes of cooking until wilted.
6. Season and Serve:
   • Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Enjoy!

This Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty meal on its own, perfect with crusty bread or cornbread on the side. Enjoy!