Soup sensation: discover the easy trick to creamy ham and bean goodness

Indulge in the delectable warmth and comfort of creamy ham and bean soup, a culinary masterpiece that will tantalize your taste buds and soothe your soul. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a culinary novice, this comprehensive guide will empower you with the secrets to crafting an irresistibly creamy and flavorful soup.

The Perfect Ingredients

The foundation of a creamy ham and bean soup lies in the quality of its ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, picked over and rinsed
• 1 pound ham bone or 1 ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Soak the Beans

Soak the navy beans in a large bowl of cold water for at least 8 hours or overnight. This will help them cook more evenly and reduce their cooking time.

2. Simmer the Ham Bone

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the ham bone, soaked beans, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cover with cold water by about 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender but still hold their shape.

3. Remove the Ham Bone

Once the beans are tender, remove the ham bone and let it cool slightly. Remove any meat from the bone and shred it.

4. Puree the Soup

Using an immersion blender or a regular blender, puree about half of the soup until smooth. This will create a creamy base for the rest of the soup.

5. Add the Shredded Ham

Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to combine.

6. Add the Heavy Cream

Stir in the heavy cream and bring the soup back to a simmer. Cook for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.

7. Season to Taste

Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or herbs to your preference.

Finishing Touches

For an extra touch of flavor and richness, consider adding any of these optional ingredients:

• 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup diced cooked ham
• A dash of hot sauce

Tips for the Creamiest Soup

• Use a higher ratio of beans to liquid. This will result in a thicker, creamier soup.
• Puree more of the soup. The more soup you puree, the creamier it will be.
• Add more heavy cream. This is a quick and easy way to increase the creaminess of your soup.
• Use an immersion blender. This will allow you to puree the soup directly in the pot without having to transfer it to a blender.

The Ultimate Comfort Food

Now that you have mastered the secrets of how to make ham and bean soup creamy, you can enjoy this comforting dish whenever you crave a warm and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete and delightful culinary experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans?

Yes, you can use canned beans if you’re short on time. However, dried beans will result in a more flavorful and creamy soup.

2. What if I don’t have a ham bone?

You can use a ham hock or a smoked ham steak instead. Alternatively, you can add 1/2 cup of diced cooked ham to the soup.

3. Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat it over medium heat.