Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup Recipe
When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the heartwarming and satisfying flavors of a well-prepared soup. Among the many variations of soups, one that stands out for its rich flavors and nutritional value is the Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup. This recipe combines the savory goodness of honey-baked ham with the wholesome goodness of beans, creating a dish that’s not only tasty but also packed with protein and fiber. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold day or a hearty dish to serve your family, this Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup is a perfect choice.
Why You Should Try Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup
The Benefits of Ham in Your Soup
Honey-baked ham is a delicious and versatile ingredient that adds a unique sweetness and smoky flavor to any dish. When used in soup, it imparts a rich, savory taste that enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. Ham is also a great source of protein, providing the essential amino acids your body needs to build and repair tissues. Additionally, it’s a good source of vitamins and minerals such as vitamin B6, niacin, and zinc, which are important for maintaining overall health.
The Nutritional Powerhouse of Beans
Beans are a staple ingredient in many cuisines around the world, and for good reason. They’re a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients such as iron, magnesium, and potassium. Adding beans to your soup not only makes it more filling but also boosts its nutritional value. Beans are known for their ability to help regulate blood sugar levels, improve heart health, and support digestive health. When combined with honey-baked ham, beans create a well-balanced and nutritious meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
A Comforting and Hearty Meal
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of soup, especially on a chilly day. Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup is the epitome of comfort food, with its rich, savory broth and tender, flavorful ingredients. The combination of ham and beans creates a hearty soup that’s perfect for warming you up from the inside out. Plus, this soup is incredibly versatile and can be customized to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 Honey Baked Ham Bone (with some meat still attached)
- 2 cups of Diced Honey Baked Ham
- 1 pound of Dried Beans (such as navy beans, great northern beans, or a mix of your favorites)
- 1 large Onion, diced
- 3 Carrots, sliced
- 3 Celery stalks, sliced
- 4 cloves of Garlic, minced
- 8 cups of Chicken Broth or Water
- 2 Bay Leaves
- 1 teaspoon of Dried Thyme
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley, chopped, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese
Step-by-Step Preparation
1. Preparing the Beans
Before you start making the soup, you’ll need to prepare the beans. If you’re using dried beans, you’ll need to soak them in water for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Soaking the beans helps to soften them and reduce cooking time. After soaking, drain and rinse the beans thoroughly.
If you’re short on time, you can use the quick soak method: place the beans in a large pot, cover them with water, and bring to a boil. Let them boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let them soak for 1 hour. Drain and rinse the beans before using them in the soup.
2. Cooking the Ham Bone
The ham bone is the key to infusing the soup with rich, savory flavor. Place the ham bone in a large soup pot or Dutch oven and add the chicken broth or water. Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This will allow the flavors from the ham bone to infuse into the broth, creating a rich base for the soup.
3. Adding the Vegetables and Beans
Once the broth has simmered, it’s time to add the vegetables and beans. Add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Stir in the soaked and rinsed beans, along with the bay leaves and dried thyme. Bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer uncovered for about 1 to 1 ½ hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Adding the Diced Ham
As the beans cook and the flavors meld together, it’s time to add the diced honey-baked ham. Stir in the ham and let the soup continue to simmer for another 15-20 minutes, allowing the ham to heat through and the flavors to combine. If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use a potato masher or the back of a spoon to mash some of the beans in the pot, which will help thicken the broth.
5. Seasoning and Serving
Once the soup is ready, taste it and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Remember that the ham is naturally salty, so be cautious when adding extra salt. If you like, you can remove the ham bone before serving, or leave it in the pot for a rustic presentation.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.
Tips for Customizing Your Soup
Experiment with Different Beans
While this recipe calls for dried navy beans or great northern beans, you can experiment with different types of beans to create your own unique version of the soup. Black beans, pinto beans, or even lentils can be used to add variety to the dish. You can also use a mix of beans for a more complex flavor and texture.
Add More Vegetables
Feel free to add more vegetables to the soup to boost its nutritional value and flavor. Chopped kale, spinach, or Swiss chard can be added during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking for a pop of color and added nutrients. You can also add diced potatoes or sweet potatoes to make the soup even heartier.
Spice It Up
If you like a little heat in your soup, consider adding some crushed red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce. The spicy kick will complement the sweetness of the honey-baked ham and add an extra layer of flavor to the dish.
Make It Creamy
For a creamier version of this soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream, half-and-half, or coconut milk just before serving. This will give the soup a rich, velvety texture that’s perfect for those who prefer cream-based soups.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup is one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day as the flavors have time to meld together. If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The soup can also be frozen for longer storage; simply portion it into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 3 months.
When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight if frozen, and reheat it on the stove over medium heat until warmed through. You may need to add a little water or broth to thin the soup if it has thickened during storage.
Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a bowl of comfort, packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of savory honey-baked ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables creates a soup that’s hearty, satisfying, and perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for your family, hosting a gathering, or simply looking for a way to use up leftover ham, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
With its versatility and ease of preparation, Honey Baked Ham Bean Soup is a dish that you’ll want to make again and again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious and nourishing bowl of soup that warms both body and soul.