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Cozy Ham & Bean Soup Recipe

Cozy Ham & Bean Soup Recipe

The Cozy Ham & Bean Soup Recipe is warm, hearty and perfect for a comforting meal. This classic soup combines tender ham, creamy beans and flavorful vegetables.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 45 minutes
Total Time 1 hour
Course Soup
Cuisine American / Comfort Food
Servings 6
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked ham diced
  • 2 cups cooked white beans or canned beans, drained
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 carrots sliced
  • 2 celery stalks chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 6 cups chicken broth
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • ½ teaspoon salt adjust to taste
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

Heat the Oil

  • Place a large soup pot over medium heat. Add olive oil and let it warm for about one minute.

Cook the Onion

  • Add chopped onion to the pot. Cook for three minutes until it becomes soft and fragrant.

Add Carrots and Celery

  • Stir in sliced carrots and chopped celery. Cook for five minutes until the vegetables begin to soften.

Add Garlic

  • Add minced garlic and stir for one minute until the aroma becomes strong and pleasant.

Add the Ham

  • Add diced ham to the pot. Stir well so the ham mixes with the vegetables.

Pour the Broth

  • Add chicken broth to the pot. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.

Add Beans

  • Stir in the cooked white beans. Mix well so they spread evenly through the soup.

Season the Soup

  • Add bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well so the spices blend into the broth.

Simmer the Soup

  • Bring the soup to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and let it simmer for 30 minutes.

Taste and Adjust

  • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed.

Remove Bay Leaf

  • Take out the bay leaf before serving to avoid strong flavor.

Garnish and Serve

  • Ladle the hot soup into bowls. Sprinkle fresh parsley on top and serve warm.

Notes

  • Use leftover holiday ham for deeper flavor.
  • Add potatoes for a thicker and heartier soup.
  • Use smoked ham for stronger smoky taste.
  • Blend a small portion of the soup for a creamier texture.
  • Add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.
  • A squeeze of lemon can brighten the flavor.
  • Use vegetable broth for a lighter version.
Keyword Cozy Ham & Bean Soup Recipe