Save to Pins A hearty, flavorful soup featuring tender beans, savory ham, and a hint of smoky paprika—perfect for chilly days and making the most of a leftover ham bone.
Save to Pins This American classic transforms simple pantry staples like dried navy beans and aromatics into a bowl of pure comfort. The long simmer time allows the ham bone to release its savory essence, creating a deep broth that warms from the inside out.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 leftover ham bone (with some meat attached), 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional, for extra meatiness)
- Beans & Legumes: 2 cups dried navy beans (or great northern beans), rinsed and soaked overnight
- Vegetables: 1 large onion, finely chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bay leaf
- Seasonings: 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, salt to taste
- Liquids: 8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set aside.
- Step 2
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the ham bone, soaked beans, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and soup is flavorful.
- Step 5
- Remove the ham bone from the pot. Let cool slightly, then pick off any meat and return it to the soup. Discard bone and bay leaf.
- Step 6
- If desired, add diced cooked ham for extra protein. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper if needed.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a swirl of olive oil.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans in the pot before serving. This releases natural starches that thicken the broth without needing extra flour or dairy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Substitute a smoked turkey leg for the ham bone for a smoky, pork-free version. You can also use Great Northern beans if navy beans are unavailable.
Serviervorschläge
This soup is excellent served with crusty bread or cornbread. For a complete dining experience, pair it with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir.
Save to Pins Whether you are warming up after a long day or feeding a hungry crowd, this ham bone bean soup is a timeless recipe that satisfies with every spoonful.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What type of beans work best for this soup?
Dried navy beans or great northern beans are ideal, as they soften well and absorb flavors during the long simmer.
- → Can I use a different meat instead of ham bone?
Yes, smoked turkey leg can be used for a similar smoky taste without pork.
- → How do I achieve a creamier texture?
Mash some of the beans in the pot before serving to add thickness and body to the soup.
- → What seasoning enhances the smoky flavor?
Smoked paprika adds a rich, warm smokiness that complements the ham and beans perfectly.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crusty bread or cornbread are traditional accompaniments that soak up the flavorful broth nicely.
- → Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, when prepared with gluten-free broth and ingredients, it is naturally gluten-free.
