Hearty Ham and Mixed Bean Soup Recipe

There’s something magical about a simmering pot of soup on a chilly day. The warmth fills the kitchen, wrapping everyone in a cozy embrace that feels like home.

This Hearty Ham and Mixed Bean Soup is a celebration of flavors and textures, blending tender ham with a colorful medley of beans. Each spoonful offers a comforting balance of savory and hearty, perfect for those moments when you need a little extra love in your bowl.

With its rich broth and vibrant herbs, this soup not only nourishes the body but also warms the soul. It’s the kind of dish that invites you to gather around the table and share stories, laughter, and maybe a few seconds of silence as everyone savors the deliciousness.

So, grab your favorite pot and let’s dive into this delightful recipe that’s sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients

This Hearty Ham and Mixed Bean Soup is perfect for a cozy meal. Below is a list of ingredients you’ll need to recreate this delicious dish for four people.

• 2 cups diced ham, cooked
• 1 cup kidney beans, canned, drained and rinsed
• 1 cup white beans, canned, drained and rinsed
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 stalks celery, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh dill, chopped
• 2 green onions, sliced

Instructions

This Hearty Ham and Mixed Bean Soup is a delightful dish that warms the soul. Follow these steps to create a comforting meal using the specified ingredients.

1. Heat the olive oil: In a large pot, add 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat and allow it to warm up for a minute.
2. Sauté the vegetables: Add 1 medium diced onion, 2 stalks of diced celery, and 2 medium diced carrots to the pot, cooking for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add garlic: Stir in 2 cloves of minced garlic and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, ensuring not to let it burn.
4. Incorporate the ham: Add 2 cups of diced cooked ham to the pot, stirring well to combine with the sautéed vegetables for about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the beans: Incorporate 1 cup of drained and rinsed kidney beans and 1 cup of drained and rinsed white beans, mixing everything together thoroughly.
6. Pour in the broth: Carefully add 4 cups of vegetable broth to the pot, ensuring all ingredients are submerged for even cooking.
7. Season the soup: Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper, stirring to evenly distribute the spices throughout the soup.
8. Simmer the soup: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low, allowing it to simmer uncovered for about 20-25 minutes to meld the flavors.
9. Add fresh herbs: Just before serving, stir in 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill to enhance the flavor and aroma of the soup.
10. Garnish and serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and top with sliced green onions for a fresh crunch before enjoying your hearty meal.

Tweaks and Additions

Enhancing this Hearty Ham and Mixed Bean Soup can elevate its flavors and textures, making it even more delightful. Here are some tweaks and additions to consider for a more robust soup experience.

• Add a splash of acidity: Incorporate a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors and balance the richness of the ham.
• Include more vegetables: Consider adding 1 cup of diced potatoes or sweet potatoes for added heartiness and nutrition, cooking them alongside the other vegetables.
• Experiment with spices: Add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin or chili powder to introduce a deeper flavor profile and a hint of warmth to the soup.
• Use fresh herbs: In addition to dill, try adding 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch that complements the soup well.
• Incorporate greens: Stir in a couple of handfuls of fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrition and color.
• Top with cheese: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled feta cheese on top of the soup just before serving for a creamy texture and extra flavor.
• Serve with crusty bread: Pair the soup with a side of fresh, crusty bread or garlic bread to enhance the overall meal experience and provide a satisfying crunch.