Step-by-step guide: cook a hearty and comforting ham and bean soup from scratch

In the realm of comfort food, few dishes evoke nostalgia and warmth like the classic ham and bean soup. Whether you’re seeking a hearty meal for a chilly evening or a comforting dish to soothe the soul, this old-fashioned soup will surely hit the spot. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of crafting the perfect ham and bean soup, ensuring a delectable and satisfying culinary experience.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
• 1 ham bone, with meat still attached
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 2 cups water
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:

• Drain the soaked beans and rinse well.
• In a large pot, combine the beans, ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, chicken broth, and water.

2. Season the Soup:

• Add the thyme, oregano, bay leaf, salt, and pepper to the pot.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender.

3. Remove the Ham Bone:

• Once the soup is cooked, remove the ham bone and let it cool slightly.
• Shred the meat from the bone and return it to the pot.

4. Adjust Seasonings:

• Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings as needed. Add additional salt, pepper, or herbs to your liking.

5. Thicken the Soup (Optional):

• If desired, you can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water). Whisk the slurry into the soup and cook until thickened.

6. Garnish and Serve:

• Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with chopped parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream.
• Serve with crusty bread or crackers for a complete meal.

Enjoying the Fruits of Your Labor

The aroma of freshly made ham and bean soup is truly intoxicating. As you savor each spoonful, you’ll be transported to a time when comfort food was cooked with love and care. The tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic broth will warm your body and soul.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What type of beans can I use?
A: Navy beans are the traditional choice for ham and bean soup, but you can also use other white beans such as Great Northern beans or cannellini beans.

Q: Can I use a ham hock instead of a ham bone?
A: Yes, a ham hock will work just as well as a ham bone. It may have less meat, but it will still add plenty of flavor to the soup.

Q: How can I make the soup thicker?
A: You can thicken the soup by adding a cornstarch slurry (equal parts cornstarch and cold water). Whisk the slurry into the soup and cook until thickened. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher to create a thicker consistency.

Q: Can I freeze ham and bean soup?
A: Yes, ham and bean soup freezes well. Let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It will keep for up to 3 months in the freezer.

Q: What are some serving suggestions?
A: Ham and bean soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or crackers. You can also serve it with a side salad or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of richness.