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## **How to Make Hearty Bean & Ham Soup**
Now that we know what goes into the soup, let’s walk through the steps of making this delicious and hearty dish.
### **Step 1: Soak the Beans (If Needed)**
If you’re using dried beans, it’s a good idea to soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and make them more digestible. Simply place the beans in a large bowl, cover them with water, and let them sit overnight. If you forget to soak the beans ahead of time, you can use the quick-soak method: bring the beans and water to a boil, let them boil for 2-3 minutes, then remove them from the heat and let them sit for 1 hour.
Once soaked, drain the beans and rinse them thoroughly.
### **Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil (or butter) over medium heat. Add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
This sautéing step builds the base of flavor for your soup. The vegetables begin to caramelize, adding sweetness and depth to the dish.
### **Step 3: Add the Ham and Broth**
If you’re using a ham hock, add it to the pot at this point. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and bring the mixture to a boil. The ham hock will add a smoky, meaty flavor to the broth as it simmers.
If you’re using diced ham, add it along with the broth and bring everything to a boil. You can also add a bit of water to ensure there’s enough liquid to cover the beans as they cook.
### **Step 4: Add the Beans and Herbs**
Once the broth is boiling, add the soaked beans and herbs (such as bay leaves, thyme, rosemary, and parsley). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cover the pot. Let it cook for 1-1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. The beans should become tender and the flavors should meld together.
If you’re using a ham hock, remove the bone once the soup is done cooking, and shred any remaining meat from it before adding it back into the soup.
### **Step 5: Adjust Seasoning and Serve**
Once the beans are tender and the flavors have come together, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. If you’d like a creamier soup, you can mash some of the beans with a potato masher to thicken the broth.
Serve the soup hot with a sprinkle of fresh parsley or grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.
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## **Variations of Hearty Bean & Ham Soup**
While the classic version of **Bean & Ham Soup** is perfect as is, there are several variations you can try depending on your preferences.
### 1. **Add More Vegetables**
If you love vegetables, consider adding potatoes, parsnips, leeks, or bell peppers to the mix. These vegetables can help add more texture and flavor to the soup.
### 2. **Make It Spicy**
Add some red pepper flakes, diced jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to give your soup a little heat. The spices will complement the richness of the ham and beans beautifully.
### 3. **Use Different Beans**
Try experimenting with different beans to give the soup a unique flavor. Pinto beans, kidney beans, or a mix of beans can add variety and depth to the soup’s texture.
### 4. **Add a Smoky Flavor**
For an extra smoky kick, try adding smoked paprika or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This will complement the ham and add a delicious layer of smokiness to the soup.
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## **Storing and Reheating Hearty Bean & Ham Soup**
### **Storing**
Bean & Ham Soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4-5 days. It tends to taste even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
### **Freezing**
This soup also freezes beautifully! To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.
### **Reheating**
To reheat, simply warm the soup over medium heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened too much in the fridge, you can add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
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## **Serving Suggestions**
Pair your **Hearty Bean & Ham Soup** with a crusty loaf of bread, such as a baguette or sourdough, to soak up the flavorful broth. A simple side salad with a tangy vinaigrette is also a great addition to balance out the richness of the soup.
For an extra touch of indulgence, serve the soup with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of grated cheese. Enjoy with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a comforting, satisfying meal.
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## **Conclusion**
**Hearty Bean & Ham Soup** is the ultimate cozy meal – satisfying, comforting, and full of flavor. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for any occasion, whether you’re preparing a family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or looking for a warming treat on a cold evening. By combining simple ingredients like ham, beans, vegetables, and herbs, this soup delivers both nutrition and flavor in every spoonful. With its versatility and ability to adapt to different tastes, **Bean & Ham Soup** will undoubtedly become a staple in your recipe collection.
So, the next time you’re craving something warm, hearty, and comforting, grab your ingredients and make this simple yet satisfying **Hearty Bean & Ham Soup**. Your taste buds will thank you!
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