30-Minutes White Bean And Ham Soup Recipe To Try

by Julia
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August 14, 2023

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Indulge in a bowl of heartwarming comfort with our White Bean and Ham Soup! This soul-soothing concoction combines the creamy richness of white beans and the smoky depth of succulent ham, creating a symphony of flavors in every spoonful. Fresh vegetables and aromatic herbs meld together, offering layers of tantalizing taste, while a hint of garlic adds the perfect zing. Easy to prepare and irresistibly delicious, this recipe promises to be your go-to comfort food, leaving you craving for more!

The White Bean and Ham Soup recipe reigns supreme, nestled amidst the comforting warmth of family meals. This harmonious blend of hearty white beans and savory ham creates an ambrosial symphony, sending taste buds on a culinary journey.

From the simmering stovetop, whispers of fragrant herbs weave an inviting narrative, promising a satisfying reprieve from the day’s hustle. The soft, creamy beans, subtly offset by the robust, smoky ham, ensure a balanced medley steeped in tradition and love.

This recipe infuses nourishment and solace into each spoonful, drawing from the rustic simplicity of home-cooked meals. Perfect for chilled nights or cozy gatherings, it provides more than sustenance; it serves memories.

Amid the boiling pot’s rhythm and the slow simmer’s lull, White Bean and Ham Soup remind us of the joy in simplicity and the elegance in homeliness. Join us on this flavorful adventure, where every ladleful tells a story of togetherness.

What Is White Bean And Ham Soup Recipe?

White Bean and Ham Soup is a flavorful and hearty dish combining white beans, chopped ham, vegetables, and herbs. Beans are soaked overnight, then cooked with onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and chunks of ham until tender. A bouquet garnished with thyme, bay leaves, and parsley is added for deep, herbal notes.

The soup is simmered, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully. This soup is a comforting, nourishing meal that warms from the inside out, finished with fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon for brightness.

Can You Vary White Bean And Ham Soup Recipe With Other Ingredients?

The White Bean and Ham Soup recipe can be adapted to various dietary preferences:

Keto/Paleo Replace the beans with low-carb vegetables like zucchini or cauliflower. You could also add more ham or even some chicken for extra protein.
Gluten-Free This soup is naturally gluten-free, containing no wheat-based ingredients. Always check labels on store-bought broth to ensure no gluten-containing additives are present.
Whole30 Substitute the beans with approved vegetables like sweet potatoes, butternut squash, or additional leafy greens. Ensure your ham and broth are compliant, free of sugar and additives.
Vegetarian Omit the ham and use a hearty vegetable like mushrooms to give the soup body. Vegetable broth can replace chicken broth.
Vegan Follow the vegetarian suggestions and replace the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh for protein. Smoked paprika or liquid smoke can be added to replicate the smoky flavor of ham.

Recipe Directions

In a medium-sized bowl, mash one can of beans with a fork or potato masher until you get a rough paste. Set the mashed beans aside.
Melt the butter over medium heat in a large saucepan or soup pot. Add the diced carrots and finely chopped onion. Sauté the vegetables until they become tender and caramelize, releasing their sweet flavors.
Stir in the water or vegetable broth, diced ham, dried thyme, dried rosemary, smoked paprika (if using), and the whole and mashed beans.
Season the soup with salt and pepper according to your taste preference. Be cautious with the salt if your ham is already salty.
Drop in the bay leaf, infusing the soup with a lovely aroma. Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover the saucepan, and let the soup simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
Once the soup is heated through and the flavors have developed, remove the bay leaf from the pot. Give the soup a final taste test and adjust the seasonings if necessary.
Ladle the hot and hearty Ham and Bean Soup into individual serving bowls. Serve it with some crusty bread on the side for a comforting and satisfying meal.

Variations, Add-Ons, And Toppings

Variations

Switch out the ham for turkey or smoked sausage. Consider using black-eyed peas or chickpeas instead of white beans.

Add-Ons

Amp up the vegetables with spinach, kale, or diced bell peppers. Add heat with a dash of red pepper flakes or hot sauce. Stir in cooked pasta or rice for added heartiness.

Toppings

Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley, thyme, or chives. Sprinkle on grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese for a creamy, salty bite. Top with croutons for a delightful crunch.

For A Creamy Version

Add a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream for a velvety finish. Alternatively, blend half the soup and mix it back in for a creamier texture without additional dairy.

Vegan Version

Replace the ham with smoked tofu or tempeh. Use olive oil instead of butter and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Can I Make The Soup Recipe In A Slow Cooker Or Instant Pot?

The White Bean and Ham Soup recipe adapts well to both slow cookers and Instant Pots:

Slow Cooker

After sautéing your carrots and onion, transfer them to your slow cooker. Add the water, ham, seasonings, and whole and mashed beans. Cook on low for 7-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Before serving, discard the bay leaf.

Instant Pot

Use the sauté function to cook the carrots and onion. Add the water, ham, seasonings, and beans. Secure the lid, set the valve to “sealing,” and cook on manual high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow the pressure to release for 10 minutes naturally, then quickly release any remaining pressure. Discard the bay leaf before serving.

Can I Use Store Broth, Or Should I Make My Own?

Both options work well for the White Bean and Ham Soup recipe, and it comes down to your personal preference and availability of time:

Store-Bought Broth

This is a convenient and time-saving option. Choose a low-sodium version, as you can always add more salt later if needed, but you can’t remove it once it’s there. Look for broths with natural ingredients, and avoid those with additives or MSG.

Homemade Broth

If you have the time and ingredients, making your broth can add a depth of flavor that store-bought broths often can’t match. It’s a great way to use leftover vegetables or bones, and you can control the sodium level and flavor profile to your liking.

How To Serve ?

The White Bean and Ham Soup is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience:

Bread: A slice of crusty bread or a warm roll is perfect for dipping into the soup and soaking up all the delicious flavors. You could also serve it with cornbread for a Southern twist.
Salad: A fresh green salad with a simple vinaigrette can balance the hearty, rich nature of the soup.
Toppings: Consider garnishing the soup with chopped parsley for a burst of color and freshness. A sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a dollop of sour cream can also add an extra layer of flavor.
Wine Pairing: If you enjoy wine with your meals, a light-bodied white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a medium-bodied red like Pinot Noir can complement the flavors of the soup.
Serving Bowl: Serve the soup in a deep bowl to keep it warm longer, and provide a spoon and fork (for larger chunks of ham or vegetables) for convenience.

Perfect Side Dishes

Crusty Bread: A loaf of warm, crusty bread is perfect for dipping and soaking up the flavorful broth.
Green Salad: A crisp, fresh salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup.
Grilled Cheese Sandwich: A classic cheese sandwich can add a comforting, indulgent touch.
Roasted Vegetables: Simple roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts, carrots, or asparagus can complement the soup’s flavors.
Cornbread: Especially if you’re serving the soup with a Southern spin, cornbread can be a delightful accompaniment.
Quinoa or Rice Salad: A light salad made with quinoa or rice, mixed with fresh herbs and a tangy dressing, can be nutritious and tasty.

Storage & Make Ahead

Refrigeration: Store leftover White Bean and Ham Soup in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This soup’s flavors deepen with time, making it a great option for make-ahead meals.
Freezing: This soup freezes well. Portion it into airtight containers, leaving room for expansion, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Make Ahead: Prepare the soup in advance, excluding any pasta or delicate greens. Refrigerate the base for up to 24 hours. Add these components just before serving for optimal texture and flavor.
Ingredient Separation: Keep toppings like fresh herbs separate until ready to serve, ensuring they maintain their vibrancy.
Flavor Infusion: Allow the soup to sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight before reheating to let the flavors meld and intensify.

What Can We Do With Leftovers?

Leftover White Bean and Ham Soup can be easily repurposed into a new dish or enjoyed as it is. Here are a few options:

New Soup: Add extra vegetables or cooked pasta to transform it into a fresh soup.
Stew: Reduce the leftover soup on the stove to create a hearty stew. Serve it over rice or alongside crusty bread.
Bean Dip: Blend the leftover soup until smooth, adjusting the consistency with a little water if needed, and serve as a dip with crackers or chips.
Casserole: Use the leftover soup as a base for a casserole. Add shredded cheese, perhaps some cooked chicken or veggies, top with breadcrumbs, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Baked Potatoes: Use the reheated soup as a rich, flavorful topping for baked potatoes. Add a dollop of sour cream and some fresh herbs for extra flavor.

TIPS

Smoky Aroma Magic: Elevate your White Bean and Ham Soup by adding a smoked ham hock during simmering. The resulting smoky essence will infuse your soup with a rich depth of flavor.
Herb Infusion: Introduce a burst of freshness by tying together a bouquet garni of fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Let it simmer with the soup and then remove before serving.
Grainy Goodness: For added heartiness, stir in a handful of cooked farro or barley. These grains not only enhance texture but also boost the soup’s nutritional profile.
Citrus Zing: Brighten up your soup by squeezing a touch of lemon or adding lemon zest right before serving. The citrusy notes will balance the richness of the ham.
Parmesan Finish: Grate some Parmesan cheese over each serving for a savory umami kick. The cheese subtly enhances the overall depth of the soup.