This recipe for creamy white bean and ham soup delivers a hearty, flavorful, and satisfying meal perfect for chilly evenings or any time you crave comfort food. It's surprisingly easy to make, using readily available ingredients, and can be adapted to your taste preferences. We'll explore variations and answer common questions along the way, ensuring you create the perfect bowl of this delicious soup.
What are the best types of beans for white bean ham soup?
Great question! While the name suggests white beans, you have some options to consider. Cannellini beans are a popular choice because of their creamy texture and mild flavor, making them an excellent base for this soup. Great Northern beans are another excellent option, offering a similar texture and mild taste. Navy beans will also work, but they tend to be slightly smaller and may not create quite as creamy a soup. Ultimately, the best bean is the one you enjoy the most!
How to make white bean ham soup from scratch?
This recipe uses readily available ingredients and simple techniques to create a delicious and comforting soup.
Yields: 6-8 servings Prep time: 15 minutes Cook time: 45 minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chopped ham (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1 (15-ounce) can cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup heavy cream or milk (optional, for extra creaminess)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the ham and beans: Stir in the chopped ham and cannellini beans. Cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing the ham to warm through.
- Simmer the soup: Pour in the chicken broth and water. Add the thyme and rosemary. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Blend (optional): For a smoother, creamier soup, use an immersion blender to partially or fully blend the soup. Leave some texture if you prefer a chunkier consistency.
- Season and serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the heavy cream or milk (if using). Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.
Can I use leftover ham bone for extra flavor?
Absolutely! A ham bone adds incredible depth of flavor to this soup. After you've removed the meat from the bone, roast it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 30 minutes to help render out more flavor. Then add the bone to the pot along with the other ingredients during the simmering stage. Remove the bone before blending or serving.
How do I thicken white bean ham soup?
If your soup is too thin, there are several ways to thicken it. You can simmer it uncovered for a longer period to reduce the liquid. Alternatively, you can make a roux (a mixture of butter and flour) and whisk it into the soup, cooking for a few minutes to thicken it. A cornstarch slurry (mix cornstarch with cold water before adding to the soup) also works well. Just be sure to add it towards the end of the cooking time, and stir continuously to prevent lumps.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! The slow cooker is perfect for this recipe. Sauté the vegetables and ham as directed above, then transfer everything to your slow cooker. Add the remaining ingredients, cover, and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. You may need to adjust the seasoning at the end.
Variations on White Bean Ham Soup
This basic recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with additions such as:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Add greens: Stir in some chopped kale or spinach during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Boost the flavor: A bay leaf added during simmering will enhance the overall flavor profile.
- Different vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes or green beans.
This creamy white bean and ham soup is a comforting classic that's easy to make and endlessly adaptable. Enjoy!
