Introduction
Nothing warms the soul quite like a hearty bowl of navy bean and ham soup. This comforting dish is a staple in many households, combining simple ingredients to create a delicious and filling meal. Packed with protein and fiber, navy beans are a nutritious option that pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of ham. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as leftovers for lunch, this soup is a timeless classic that is easy to prepare and delightful to share.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 pound dried navy beans
1 ham bone (or 1 pound thick-cut ham or bacon)
1 large onion, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
2 carrots, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves (optional)
2 whole cloves (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Water or chicken/vegetable broth
Prep Time
Overnight soaking time for the beans, plus approximately 15 minutes for chopping and gathering ingredients.
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 2.5 to 3 hours
Total Time: Approximately 24 hours (including soaking)
Yield: Serves 6-8 bowls of soup
As you gather your ingredients and follow this simple recipe, the delightful aroma of the soup will fill your kitchen, promising a nourishing meal ahead. Enjoy the process and the comforting flavors of homemade navy bean and ham soup!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Rinse and Soak Beans
Rinse the navy beans under cold water. Place them in a large bowl, cover with water, and let them soak overnight.
Step 2: Drain Beans
The next day, drain and rinse the beans.
Step 3: Prepare Pot
In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and ham bone. Add enough water or broth to cover the beans by about 2 inches.
Step 4: Add Aromatics
If using, tie the bay leaves and whole cloves in a piece of cheesecloth to create a sachet, and add it to the pot.
Step 5: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
Step 6: Remove Ham Bone
Remove the ham bone from the pot. If desired, remove any meat from the bone, chop it into bite-sized pieces, and return it to the soup.
Step 7: Add Vegetables
Add the diced onion, celery, carrots, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir to combine.
Step 8: Continue Simmering
Continue to simmer the soup, uncovered, for an additional 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender.
Step 9: Remove Aromatics
Remove the bay leaf and clove sachet, if used.
Step 10: Season to Taste
Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 11: Serve
Serve hot, optionally garnished with chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated cheese.
Notes
Storage
Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezing
This soup can be frozen for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers.
Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes or bell peppers, or use different types of meat.
Thickening
For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot or use an immersion blender to blend a portion of the soup.
Cook Techniques
Soaking Beans
Rinsing and soaking navy beans overnight helps to soften them and reduces cooking time. This also helps remove some of the indigestible sugars that can cause gas.
Creating Flavor Base
Sautéing onions, celery, carrots, and garlic introduces aromatic flavors into the soup. This step builds depth in the dish, enhancing the overall taste profile.
Simmering
Simmering the beans with the ham bone allows the flavors to meld and the beans to cook thoroughly. Cooking low and slow ensures the beans become tender while absorbing the savory goodness from the ham.
Using a Sachet
Tying bay leaves and cloves in cheesecloth keeps the spices contained. This method allows for flavor infusion without floating pieces of spice in the soup.
Adjusting Seasoning
Seasoning with salt and pepper at the end of cooking allows for better flavor control. It ensures the soup is perfectly seasoned based on personal taste and the saltiness of the ham.
FAQ
Can I use canned navy beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned navy beans for a quicker preparation. Just rinse them and add them towards the end of cooking to heat through.
What can I use if I don’t have a ham bone?
If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use thick-cut ham or bacon. You can also substitute with smoked sausage for a similar flavor.
How can I make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Cool the soup completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes, you can add other vegetables like potatoes, spinach, or bell peppers according to your preference for additional flavor and nutrition.
Conclusion
The navy bean soup with ham is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for warming up on a chilly day. Its rich, smoky flavors from the ham, combined with the tender vegetables, create a satisfying meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. Leftovers, if any, can also be stored and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors continue to meld and deepen.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Bean Soup
Replace the ham with more vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and green beans for a light and healthy version.
Spicy Navy Bean Chili
Add chili powder, diced tomatoes, and bell peppers to transform the soup into a spicy chili dish.
Bean and Bacon Stew
Substitute the ham bone with crisped bacon and add potatoes for a hearty stew option.
Navy Bean Salad
Cook the beans and then chill them, tossing with diced vegetables, olive oil, vinegar, and herbs for a refreshing salad.
Italian Navy Bean Soup
Incorporate Italian herbs like oregano and basil, and serve with a drizzle of olive oil and grated parmesan cheese for an Italian twist.
