Elevate leftover ham: transform it into a comforting ham and bean soup

Are you looking for a way to transform your leftover ham into a culinary masterpiece? Look no further than this hearty and comforting ham and bean soup. With just a few simple ingredients and a touch of culinary magic, you can create a soup that will warm your soul and leave your taste buds singing.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup dried Great Northern beans, sorted and rinsed
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 ham bone with meat (about 1 pound)
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 2 cups chopped leftover ham
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Soak the Beans: In a large bowl, combine the beans and cold water. Allow them to soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
2. Simmer the Ham Bone: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven, combine the soaked beans, chicken or vegetable broth, and ham bone. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
3. Sauté the Vegetables: While the beans are simmering, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add a drizzle of olive oil and sauté the onion, carrots, and celery until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the Vegetables and Seasonings: Add the sautéed vegetables, thyme, and bay leaf to the stockpot. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Simmer: Continue simmering the soup for another 30-45 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender and the flavors have melded.
6. Add the Ham: Remove the ham bone from the soup and discard. Add the chopped leftover ham to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.
7. Serve: Ladle the hot ham and bean soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or chives.

Enjoying Your Ham and Bean Soup

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a cold winter day or a cozy evening at home. Serve it with a side of crusty bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

Tips for the Perfect Ham and Bean Soup:

• Use a variety of beans: For a more complex flavor, try using a mix of Great Northern beans, navy beans, or pinto beans.
• Don’t skip the soaking: Soaking the beans overnight helps to reduce cooking time and makes them more digestible.
• Use a flavorful ham: The quality of the ham will greatly impact the taste of the soup. Use a ham that is well-seasoned and has a good balance of salt and sweetness.
• Simmer for flavor: Allow the soup to simmer for as long as possible to develop a deep and rich flavor.

Leftover Ham and Bean Soup Variations:

• Add vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to your soup, such as potatoes, corn, or peas.
• Make it spicy: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.
• Use different beans: Experiment with different types of beans, such as black beans, kidney beans, or lima beans.
• Add a smoky flavor: Add a few slices of bacon or smoked sausage to the soup for an extra layer of flavor.

Conclusion: A Culinary Triumph

With its rich flavor, hearty texture, and versatility, this ham and bean soup is a testament to the transformative power of leftovers. Whether you’re using leftover ham from a holiday feast or a simple weeknight meal, this soup will delight your taste buds and warm your heart.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

• Yes, you can use canned beans. Rinse them thoroughly before adding them to the soup and reduce the cooking time by 30-45 minutes.

2. Can I freeze ham and bean soup?

• Yes, you can freeze ham and bean soup for up to 3 months. Allow it to cool completely before freezing.

3. How can I thicken ham and bean soup?

• You can thicken the soup by mashing some of the beans with a fork or adding a cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water).