Easy Ham and Bean Soup (30 Minutes)

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Few things beat a bowl of warm, hearty soup, especially on a chilly or drizzling day. This quick ham and bean soup is a classic favorite, loved for both its rich flavors and simplicity. Featuring tender ham, creamy white beans, red kidney beans, celery, onion, and carrots, it’s a cozy and nutritious meal that will be ready in no time!

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 cups cooked ham, diced
  • 1 cup white beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup red kidney beans, drained and rinsed
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 1 carrot, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Olive oil for sautéing
  • Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. In a large pot, heat a drizzle of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion, celery, and carrot. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion turns translucent.
  2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced ham to the pot and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing it to develop some color and flavor.
  4. Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, followed by the drained white beans, red kidney beans, bay leaf, and dried thyme. Stir everything together.
  5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Remove and discard the bay leaf.
  6. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Keep in mind that ham can be salty, so be cautious with the salt until you’ve tasted the final product.
  7. Ladle the hot soup into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Don’t hesitate to add other favorite veggies like bell peppers or green beans for extra flavor and nutrition. If you like a creamy touch, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving. This soup freezes wonderfully, so consider making a double batch and freezing some for quick, homemade meals on busy days. Serve your ham and bean soup with a side of warm crusty bread, cornbread, or oyster crackers for a complete meal. Enjoy!

*Please keep in mind that the following nutritional information is based on estimates and can vary depending on the specific brands and ingredients used.

Nutrition

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