This Quick Bean and Ham Soup is the epitome of comfort food. The rich broth combined with tender white beans and savory ham creates a satisfying meal that warms you from the inside out. If you’re craving something quick, hearty, and wholesome, this soup is a must-try.
Perfect for a chilly evening or as a quick lunch, the addition of kale provides a nice boost of greens, and the optional squeeze of lemon adds just the right touch of brightness to the rich flavors. Whether you enjoy it as is or customize with your favorite vegetables, this soup is sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.
Full Recipe
Ingredients:
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 medium onion, chopped
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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2 cups water
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2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
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1 ham steak (about 1 lb.), diced
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
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2 cups kale, chopped (optional)
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1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice (optional)
Directions:
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Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is soft, about 5 minutes.
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Add the chicken broth, water, white beans, diced ham, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
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Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it cook uncovered for 20-25 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
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If desired, add chopped kale in the last 5 minutes of cooking and cook until wilted.
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Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt or additional pepper, if needed. Stir in lemon juice for brightness, if using.
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Serve the soup hot, and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Quick Bean and Ham Soup: A Hearty and Wholesome Comfort Food
When the weather turns chilly and you’re craving something warm, hearty, and satisfying, a bowl of Quick Bean and Ham Soup is the perfect dish. This soup combines the richness of ham with the wholesome goodness of beans, creating a filling and flavorful meal that can be enjoyed by the whole family. It’s a versatile recipe that allows for easy customization while remaining a simple yet delicious dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner, a meal prep option, or a dish to warm you up on a cold day, this soup checks all the boxes.
The Comfort of Beans and Ham
Beans and ham have long been a favorite pairing in many kitchens. The beans add a hearty, creamy texture while the ham provides savory depth. This soup takes advantage of this classic combination to create a filling and nutritious meal. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, while ham adds a touch of smokiness and richness that elevates the flavor profile.
White beans, in particular, are often used in soups due to their mild flavor and creamy texture. In this recipe, they absorb the flavors of the broth and ham, becoming tender and flavorful. The ham also breaks down into small pieces, giving the soup a hearty, satisfying bite. The combination of the two creates a balanced dish that’s not only tasty but also offers great nutritional benefits.
Why This Soup is Perfect for Busy Weeknights
One of the best features of this Quick Bean and Ham Soup is its ease of preparation. With just a few basic ingredients and a one-pot method, you can have a delicious meal ready in about 40 minutes. The simplicity of the recipe makes it ideal for busy weeknights when you need to get dinner on the table fast. It’s also a great dish to make ahead, as it reheats beautifully, making it a perfect option for meal prep.
Moreover, the soup is incredibly versatile. While the basic recipe is straightforward, you can adjust it according to your preferences. For example, you can add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and texture. Kale or spinach are excellent choices for greens that boost the nutritional value of the dish. You could even substitute the ham with bacon or sausage if you prefer a different type of protein. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this soup your own.
Nutritional Benefits of Quick Bean and Ham Soup
This soup is more than just a comforting meal—it’s also packed with nutrients that contribute to a balanced diet. Beans are a great source of plant-based protein and are rich in dietary fiber, which helps support digestive health and regulate blood sugar levels. The addition of ham provides a good source of protein and essential minerals like iron and zinc, which are important for immune function and overall health.
If you choose to add kale or other leafy greens, you’ll be increasing the soup’s vitamin content as well. Kale is high in vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants that promote overall well-being. The use of low-sodium chicken broth also helps keep the sodium content in check, making this soup a healthier option compared to many store-bought alternatives. Additionally, the dish is easily adaptable to suit various dietary needs, including gluten-free or dairy-free options.
The Versatility of Quick Bean and Ham Soup
One of the greatest things about this soup is its flexibility. Not only can you customize it with your choice of vegetables, but you can also adjust the seasoning and flavor profile to suit your taste. For instance, if you prefer a spicier soup, you could add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more herbaceous flavor, you could experiment with adding thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves.
The soup can also be served with a variety of accompaniments. A slice of crusty bread or a side salad can complement the soup perfectly. If you’re looking to make the meal even heartier, you could serve it with a simple grilled cheese sandwich for a classic, comforting combination. For those following low-carb or gluten-free diets, you can skip the bread and opt for a light salad or roasted vegetables as a side dish.
A Great Option for Meal Prep
Because Quick Bean and Ham Soup stores well and reheats easily, it makes an excellent choice for meal prepping. You can make a big batch on the weekend and enjoy it throughout the week. Simply store the soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It can also be frozen for longer storage—just be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
When reheating, the soup retains its flavor and texture, making it just as delicious the second time around. This makes it a perfect lunch or dinner option when you’re short on time or need something quick and satisfying. It’s also an ideal dish to make for a crowd, whether you’re hosting a casual dinner party or need to feed a large family.
A Budget-Friendly Meal
Another reason why Quick Bean and Ham Soup is a standout recipe is its affordability. Both beans and ham are budget-friendly ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. Beans are an inexpensive source of protein and fiber, and ham is often sold at a reasonable price, especially when purchased in larger quantities. This makes the soup a great option for those on a tight budget or anyone looking for a cost-effective meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
Additionally, because the soup uses pantry staples and common ingredients, you likely already have most of what you need in your kitchen. This reduces the need for special trips to the store and allows you to make a delicious, hearty meal with minimal effort and expense.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Quick Bean and Ham Soup is a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or meal prep. With its rich broth, tender beans, and savory ham, it’s a meal that’s sure to satisfy. Not only is it easy to make, but it’s also packed with nutrients that promote a healthy diet. Whether you’re craving something warm to combat the chill of winter or need a budget-friendly, easy-to-make meal, this soup is the answer. It’s a dish that’s simple enough for beginners to make, yet flavorful and satisfying enough to please even the most discerning taste buds. With its customizable nature, you can tweak the recipe to suit your personal preferences, making it a meal that will always hit the spot.