Description

As the chill of winter winds begins to embrace us, there's nothing quite like wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup. This dish isn't just a meal; it’s a cherished tradition that fills your home with comforting aromas and cozy vibes. Picture this: a rich, flavorful broth simmering away on your stovetop, the sweet scent of onions and garlic mingling with the smoky essence of ham. Each spoonful brings a delightful combination of tender white beans, vibrant vegetables, and succulent pieces of ham that speak to the heart and soul of rustic cooking.

Originating as a practical dish that utilizes leftover ingredients, this soup beautifully embodies the spirit of frugality and comfort found in many homes. It’s a timeless family favorite that’s been passed down through generations, often prepared during the coldest months when warmth is most sought after. Once prepared, the flavors meld and deepen, making leftovers a treat to look forward to. A little patience is all that’s needed to transform simple, quality ingredients into a bowl of delicious warmth.

Whether you’re feeding a family after a long day or hosting friends for a cozy evening indoors, this soup is sure to impress. The beauty of Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup lies not only in its rich taste but also in its ease of preparation. With a bit of soaking and simmering, you can whip up a batch that serves as a filling meal or a perfect starter. Grab your favorite bread or biscuits to accompany it, and you’ve got a comforting feast!

Ingredients

• 1 lb or 2 1/2 cups dry white beans—Cannellini or Great Northern
• 2 quarts of water
• 2-3 lbs of smoked ham shanks or ham hocks
• 2 teaspoons Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 cup of diced onions (about 1 small onion)
• 1 cup chopped celery (about 2-3 ribs)
• 2/3 cup chopped carrots (about 1 medium carrot)
• 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
• Tabasco sauce to taste
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Preparation Method

To start your Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup, the first order of business is to soak the beans. This crucial step softens the beans, allowing them to cook evenly and absorb the flavors beautifully. Take a large pot and fill it with water, bringing it to a boil. Once boiling, turn off the heat, and add in the dry white beans. Let them soak for about two hours, ensuring they absorb the water and soften. After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside.

Next, it’s time to create a delicious ham broth. Take a large pot and place your smoked ham shanks or hocks inside. Cover the meat entirely with two quarts of fresh water. For added flavor, sprinkle in your choice of Herbes de Provence or Italian seasoning. Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over high heat. Once it reaches a simmer, reduce the heat to low, partially cover the pot, and let it simmer for around one hour. The ham will start to infuse the water with its smoky goodness, creating a foundation of flavor for your soup.

While the ham simmers, let's prepare the aromatic vegetables. In a separate skillet, heat one tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onions and sauté them until they start to become translucent, which should take about five to six minutes. Once they’re looking good, toss in your minced garlic, cooking it for an additional minute. The fragrance of sautéed onions and garlic is the signature scent that will fill your kitchen with warmth and anticipation.

After the ham has simmered for an hour, it's time for the beans and veggies to join the party. Retrieve your soaked and drained beans and gently add them to the ham broth. Along with the beans, stir in the sautéed onions, garlic, chopped celery, and carrots. Let the soup cook uncovered for about 40 more minutes. During this time, the flavors will meld, and the vegetables will soften to the perfect tenderness. Keep an eye on the ham; it should be easy to pull off the bone when it’s ready.

Carefully remove the ham shanks or hocks from the pot, and make sure to pull off any meat, returning those delicious morsels back to the pot. It’s a great moment to discard the bones, as they have contributed so much flavor to your broth. With everything back in the pot, it's time to season your soup. A few drops of Tabasco sauce will add a nice kick, but adjust according to your spice preference. Finally, add salt and pepper to taste.

Serve your Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley. This not only enhances the presentation but also adds a touch of freshness that elevates each bowl.

Tips and Conclusion

For those opting to customize the soup according to their tastes, consider incorporating additional vegetables like diced tomatoes, spinach, or even some diced potatoes for a heartier variation. If you enjoy a creamier texture, blending a portion of the soup with an immersion blender can lend a lovely creaminess while still retaining whole bean appeal.

Additionally, if you're making this soup to enjoy over several days, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delicious with each passing day. You can also freeze it for a comforting meal later—it freezes surprisingly well!
In preparing Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup, you’ve not only created a meal but a wonderful experience wrapped in warmth and nostalgia. As you serve up this steaming bowl of goodness, indulge in the rich flavors that speak to the heart, reminiscent of family gatherings and cozy winter nights. The simplicity of the ingredients belies the depth of flavor achieved through careful preparation and love.

We hope this recipe becomes a cherished part of your culinary repertoire. Feel free to explore our site for more comforting classics like Beef and Barley Stew and Creamy Tomato Basil Soup, perfect for warming the soul during chilly evenings. We invite you to share this recipe with friends and loved ones, encouraging them to create their take on this timeless dish. Enjoy your cooking adventures!