Main Ingredients
Pantry Staples
Main ingredients for Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup recipe typically include bone-in ham, dried navy beans, onion, carrot, celery, garlic, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, pepper, thyme, and bay leaves.
Pantry staples often used in this recipe include canned tomatoes, vegetable oil or butter, salt, black pepper, dried herbs like thyme and oregano, and sometimes a pinch of sugar to balance out acidity from the tomatoes.
Other essential pantry items that can be used as substitutes or additions depending on personal preference or what’s available in your pantry include diced potatoes for added thickness and starchiness, Worcestershire sauce for depth of flavor, or even a splash of red wine for an extra layer of complexity.
When it comes to beans, dried navy beans are traditional and recommended due to their mild flavor and creamy texture. However, other types of dry beans like kidney, pinto, or cannellini can be used as alternatives if you have them on hand or prefer a different taste profile.
For the ham component, it’s best to use bone-in ham with some fat remaining, which helps create a rich and creamy broth. Avoid using lean or boneless ham, as they won’t yield the same results.
If you’re planning ahead or want to make this recipe even more convenient, consider soaking your navy beans overnight to speed up cooking time on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot.
1 pound dried navy beans
Dried navy beans are one of the main ingredients in traditional American ham and bean soup, and they play a crucial role in giving the dish its distinctive flavor and texture.
Navy beans, also known as haricot beans or white beans, are a type of small, white, kidney-shaped bean that is commonly used in soups, stews, and casseroles.
They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a firm, creamy texture that makes them perfect for slow-cooking with meats and vegetables.
Navy beans are rich in protein, fiber, and other nutrients, making them a nutritious addition to the soup.
In terms of their role in Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, the navy beans help to add depth and body to the broth, while also providing a boost of protein and fiber to make the soup more satisfying and filling.
The beans are typically soaked overnight before being added to the pot with diced ham, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and other aromatics to create a hearty and comforting soup that is perfect for cold winter nights or as a special treat any time of the year.
In addition to their flavor and nutritional benefits, navy beans are also relatively inexpensive compared to other types of beans or protein sources, making them an affordable choice for families and cooks on a budget.
1 small onion, chopped
The first ingredient mentioned for the classic Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe is a small onion, which plays a crucial role in enhancing the overall flavor profile of the dish.
The onion acts as a fundamental component in adding an aromatic base to the soup, its pungent and sweet properties complementing the rich flavors of ham and beans perfectly.
When chopping the small onion, it’s essential to aim for a mix of finely chopped and slightly larger pieces. This texture variation ensures that the onion cooks evenly throughout the cooking process, distributing its flavor nuances uniformly across the soup.
The fine chopping also facilitates a quicker release of the onion’s natural enzymes, allowing them to break down the cell walls more efficiently during cooking, which in turn contributes to a depth and complexity in the finished product.
3 cloves garlic, minced
The main ingredients for this hearty and comforting soup include a variety of delicious components that come together to create a rich and flavorful dish. One key ingredient is garlic, which plays a crucial role in adding depth and aroma to the soup.
In particular, the recipe calls for 3 cloves of garlic to be minced, which means they are finely chopped into small pieces to release their potent flavors and oils. This amount may seem minimal, but it’s essential to achieve the perfect balance of flavor in the soup.
It’s worth noting that using fresh garlic is essential for getting the best results. If you’re using jarred or pre-minced garlic, you might want to use a bit less as it can be quite strong. On the other hand, if you prefer a stronger garlic flavor, you could even use 4-5 cloves!
The key to successfully incorporating the garlic into the soup is to sauté it in oil or butter until it’s fragrant and translucent. This process, known as “deglazing,” helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the garlic and mingles its flavors with those of other ingredients.
1 teaspoon ground thyme
The main ingredients for a traditional Ham and Bean Soup Recipe include a combination of protein-rich elements, vegetables, and legumes that come together to create a hearty and comforting dish.
One key ingredient in this recipe is ground thyme, which is added in the amount of 1 teaspoon. Thyme is a popular herb in many soups, stews, and casseroles due to its distinctive flavor and aroma, as well as its potential health benefits.
Other essential components of this recipe include diced ham, dried navy beans, onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and sometimes other ingredients like diced potatoes or corn. The specific quantities and types of each ingredient may vary depending on personal preference and cultural traditions.
The inclusion of thyme is particularly significant in this recipe because it enhances the overall flavor profile of the soup without overpowering its other components. Thyme’s slightly bitter and earthy taste complements the rich flavors of the ham and beans, creating a harmonious balance that defines this beloved comfort food.
The versatility of thyme in cooking stems from its ability to pair well with a wide range of ingredients and cuisines. Whether used fresh or dried, thyme adds depth and complexity to various dishes, making it a valuable addition to many recipes, including the classic Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe.
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
The main ingredients in this hearty soup recipe include a variety of essential elements that come together to create a delicious and comforting dish.
Main Ingredients
- Ham: Diced ham provides a salty, savory flavor to the soup. It’s an essential component that adds depth and richness to the dish.
- Beans: Navy beans or other white beans are used in this recipe, providing a protein-packed punch and a creamy texture when cooked.
Vegetables:
- Celery: Diced celery adds a fresh flavor and crunchy texture to the soup.
- Onions: Chopped onions bring a sweet and savory taste to the dish, adding to its overall flavor profile.
- Mushrooms: Sliced or chopped mushrooms add an earthy flavor and meaty texture, enhancing the overall taste experience.
Spices:
- Cumin: A pinch of ground cumin is used in this recipe to add a warm, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Basil:
- Dried or fresh basil leaves are added to give the soup an herbal and aromatic taste.
These main ingredients come together in harmony, creating a satisfying and comforting bowl of ham and bean soup that’s perfect for any time of day or occasion.
Meat and Liquid
The main ingredients of Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe can be divided into three categories: meats, beans, and vegetables. However, when it comes to the primary components that give this soup its rich flavor and creamy texture, we focus on the meat and liquid elements.
Meat is a crucial component in Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, as it provides the base of the soup’s flavor profile. The main type of meat used is smoked ham hocks or boneless ham steaks, which are rich in collagen, gelatin, and flavorful proteins. These ingredients contribute to the soup’s hearty texture and deep, savory taste.
In addition to ham, other meats such as bacon or pancetta can be included to add a smoky, salty flavor to the soup. The combination of smoked meats creates a complex flavor profile that is both comforting and satisfying.
Liquid plays a vital role in Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, serving not only as the base but also as an essential component that brings all the ingredients together. The primary liquids used are chicken or beef broth, which provide the foundation of the soup’s flavor and moisture content.
Along with the liquid from the ham hocks and vegetables, other ingredients such as water or wine can be added to achieve the desired consistency and flavor. The amount and type of liquid will depend on personal preference, but it is essential to balance the flavors and textures in the soup.
The combination of meat and liquid creates a rich, comforting broth that showcases the main characteristics of Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe. By carefully selecting the right meats and liquids, home cooks can create a delicious, satisfying dish that warms the heart and nourishes the body.
1 pound ham hocks or smoked pork shoulder
The main ingredient that provides the rich flavor base for this traditional ham and bean soup recipe is the pound of ham hocks or smoked pork shoulder.
A key characteristic of both ham hocks and smoked pork shoulder is their smoky, savory flavor profile, which has been developed during a slow-smoking process over low heat.
Ham hocks are essentially cured leg portions taken from a pig, while the smoked pork shoulder typically comes from the upper portion of the front leg.
The choice between using ham hocks and smoked pork shoulder often boils down to personal preference or what ingredients might be more readily available in your local area.
Smoked pork shoulder has become increasingly popular over recent years, especially for use in slow-cooking recipes such as braises, stews, and soups because of its robust flavor and tender texture when cooked low and slow.
When using either ingredient in the ham and bean soup recipe, it’s essential to cook them for an extended period to break down the collagen into gelatin and release all the flavors that they have stored up during their smoking or curing process.
This lengthy cooking time can add considerable depth of flavor to your final dish as well as contributing to a heartier, more comforting texture from the combination of tender meat and firm, slow-cooked beans.
4 cups beef broth (low sodium)
The main ingredient that serves as the base for this hearty soup is a robust beef broth. Specifically, it calls for four cups of low sodium beef broth, which provides a rich and savory flavor to the dish. This large quantity of broth helps to create a thick and comforting consistency, perfect for warming up on a chilly day.
The use of low-sodium beef broth is intentional in this recipe, as it allows home cooks to maintain control over the amount of salt added to the soup. By choosing a low-sodium option, cooks can adjust the seasoning to their taste without worrying about excessive sodium content. This approach also makes it easier for those following a low-sodium diet to enjoy a delicious and satisfying bowl of Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup.
The abundance of beef broth in this recipe serves several purposes. Firstly, it adds depth and complexity to the soup’s flavor profile, creating a harmonious balance between sweet, savory, and umami notes. Secondly, it helps to tenderize the beans and ham, making them easier to digest and enjoy. Finally, the beef broth provides essential moisture to the dish, ensuring that each spoonful is satisfying and filling.
2 cups water
The main ingredients for Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe are:
2 cups water, this will be used to rehydrate the dried beans and ham, creating a rich and flavorful broth.
In addition to the 2 cups of water, other essential ingredients include:
A pound of smoked or cooked ham, which adds a deep, savory flavor to the soup. You can use leftover ham or purchase a ham specifically for this recipe.
1 cup dried navy beans or pinto beans, which will be soaked overnight and then simmered in the pot with the other ingredients until they’re tender and creamy.
Onions, carrots, and celery, which provide a mirepoix flavor base to the soup. You can use as much or as little of these aromatics as you like, but the general rule of thumb is 1 medium onion, 2 stalks of celery, and 2 medium carrots.
Garlic, which adds a pungent flavor that pairs well with the beans and ham.
Herbs such as thyme and bay leaves, which add depth and warmth to the soup. You can also use other herbs like parsley or oregano if you prefer.
Salt and pepper, which are used to season the soup to taste. Be sure to adjust these to your liking!
These ingredients will come together to create a hearty and comforting ham and bean soup that’s perfect for a chilly day. Simply sauté the onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a pot, add in the water, beans, ham, herbs, salt, and pepper, then bring everything to a boil before reducing the heat and letting it simmer until the beans are tender. Serve hot with some crusty bread or cornbread for a delicious meal!
Cooking the Soup
Browning the Ham and Vegetables
To cook this delicious soup, start by gathering all the necessary ingredients, including 1 pound of dried navy beans, 1 pound of smoked ham hocks, 2 medium onions, 3 cloves of garlic, 2 carrots, 2 celery stalks, 4 cups of chicken broth, and salt and pepper to taste. Additionally, you will need a large pot or Dutch oven with a heavy bottom to distribute heat evenly.
Next, rinse the dried navy beans in cold water, removing any debris or impurities. Drain well and set aside for now.
Begin by browning the ham hocks over medium-high heat in a little bit of oil until they are nicely caramelized on all sides, about 5-7 minutes per side. This will add depth and richness to your soup.
While the ham is browning, chop the onions, garlic, carrots, and celery into bite-sized pieces. These vegetables will form the base of your flavorful broth, so take the time to prepare them properly.
In a separate pan over medium heat, add a tablespoon or two of oil and sauté the chopped vegetables until they are softened and fragrant, stirring occasionally. This should take about 5-7 minutes.
Once the ham is nicely browned and the vegetables are tender, it’s time to add them to your large pot or Dutch oven. Add in the rinsed navy beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper to taste.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together beautifully. You may need to skim off any excess fat that rises to the surface during cooking.
As the soup cooks, you can also prepare some additional ingredients like chopped fresh herbs, diced cooked bacon, or crumbled crackers for garnish. These will add a nice pop of color and texture to your finished dish.
After 45-60 minutes of simmering, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You may want to add more salt, pepper, or a bit of acidity like vinegar or lemon juice to balance out the flavors.
Once the soup has cooled slightly, ladle it into bowls and serve hot, garnished with your choice of additional toppings or mix-ins. Enjoy the warm, comforting goodness of Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe!
In a large pot, heat some oil over mediumhigh heat
To begin cooking the soup, it’s essential to heat a generous amount of oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
The ideal oil for this recipe is vegetable oil, as it has a high smoke point and won’t burn or become bitter when heated to high temperatures.
Once the oil is hot, add 1-2 tablespoons of chopped onion to the pot. You can use either yellow onion or white onion, depending on your personal preference.
Cook the onion until it becomes translucent and starts to caramelize, which should take around 3-4 minutes.
While the onion is cooking, you can prepare the ham by dicing a pound of cooked ham into small cubes. You can use leftover ham from a previous meal or buy a pre-cooked ham specifically for this recipe.
After the onion has caramelized, add 3-4 cloves of minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional minute.
Next, add 1 cup of dried navy beans to the pot along with 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth. You can use low-sodium broth if you prefer a less salty soup.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
Add the diced ham to the pot during the last 10-15 minutes of cooking time. This will allow the flavors to meld together and the ham to reheat evenly.
Finally, season the soup with salt, pepper, and any other herbs or spices you like. You can add a sprinkle of paprika or a pinch of dried thyme for extra flavor.
Serve the ham and bean soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired. This recipe makes 6-8 servings, so feel free to adjust the ingredients based on your family’s size and needs.
Add the chopped onion and cook until browned
The first step in cooking the delicious Ham and Bean Soup is to add the chopped onion. To do this, heat a large pot over medium heat and add 2-3 tablespoons of butter or oil, such as olive or vegetable oil. Once the fat has melted, add the chopped onion and cook until it is browned.
This process typically takes around 5-7 minutes, during which time you will need to stir the onion occasionally to prevent it from burning. As the onion cooks, it will begin to release its natural sugars and develop a rich, caramelized flavor that will add depth and complexity to your soup.
As the onion is cooking, you can also prepare the other ingredients for the soup, such as diced ham, dried beans, and any desired vegetables. Once the onion has reached the desired level of browning, you can add these ingredients to the pot and continue with the recipe.
To ensure that the onion is cooked evenly, it’s a good idea to cook it in batches if necessary. This will prevent the onion from steaming instead of browning, which can result in a less flavorful soup. Simply remove the browned onions from the pot and set them aside before adding the remaining onions and cooking them until they are also browned.
Some additional tips for achieving perfectly browned onions include:
- Making sure the pan is hot enough: Before adding the onion, make sure the pan has reached a medium-high heat. This will help to achieve a nice sear on the onion.
- Using the right fat: Choose a high-quality oil or butter that can withstand high temperatures without burning or smoking.
- Cooking in batches: As mentioned earlier, cooking the onions in batches will help to prevent them from steaming instead of browning.
Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute
- To cook the soup, first add the diced ham to a large pot over medium heat. Then, add two cups of chopped celery and three cloves of minced garlic.
- Next, sauté the mixture for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
- Add in one teaspoon of ground black pepper, salt to taste, and five cups of chicken broth. Stir everything together to combine.
- Now it’s time to add the dried navy beans, which should be rinsed and drained first.
- The soup needs to simmer for about 45 minutes or until the beans are tender. To make the soup creamy, you can add some heavy cream or half-and-half towards the end of the cooking time.
- After the soup has finished cooking, use an immersion blender to puree it to your desired consistency.
- Finally, serve the Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup hot with some crusty bread for a delicious meal.
Add the ham hocks or smoked pork shoulder and cook until browned on all sides
To add the ham hocks or smoked pork shoulder to the soup, follow these steps:
- Select either two ham hocks or one large smoked pork shoulder for added flavor and richness in your mom’s ham and bean soup.
Then place them in a large pot over medium-high heat. If using ham hocks, you may need to trim any excess fat for a cleaner presentation of the dish.
Once heated through, carefully add each side of either the smoked pork shoulder or ham hocks to achieve an even browning throughout both pieces.
Add the browned pieces back into your pot filled with vegetables and beans. Proceed with the rest of the recipe as instructed for a hearty and satisfying meal that combines flavors of smoky bacon, tender vegetables, and creamy beans.
Simmering the Soup
Achieving the Perfect Consistency
To achieve the perfect consistency in Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup recipe, it’s essential to understand the importance of simmering the soup. Simmering is a cooking technique that involves heating the liquid slowly over low heat, allowing the flavors to meld together and the ingredients to tenderize.
When simmering the soup, it’s crucial to maintain a gentle temperature to prevent the liquid from boiling vigorously. This can lead to uneven cooking and potentially result in a soup that’s too thick or too thin. Instead, aim for a temperature range of 180°F to 190°F (82°C to 88°C) for optimal results.
Another critical aspect of simmering is monitoring the soup’s consistency regularly. Check on it every 30 minutes to an hour, and adjust the seasoning as needed. This will help you achieve the perfect balance of flavors without over- or under-cooking the ingredients.
As the soup simmers, the beans will absorb some of the liquid, which is a good thing! However, if you prefer a slightly thicker consistency, you can reduce the amount of broth or add a slurry made from a mixture of cornstarch and water. On the other hand, if the soup becomes too thick, simply add a bit more broth to achieve your desired consistency.
To ensure that your soup is perfectly seasoned, taste it regularly throughout the simmering process. Add salt, pepper, or any other herbs and spices as needed to enhance the flavor. Keep in mind that the longer you simmer the soup, the more intense the flavors will become, so be cautious not to over-season.
When the soup has reached your desired consistency, remove it from heat and let it cool slightly before serving. This allows the flavors to settle and the ingredients to redistribute, resulting in a perfectly balanced and delicious meal that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters!
Add the dried navy beans, beef broth, water, thyme, and cumin to the pot
To begin simmering the soup, start by adding 1 cup of dried navy beans to the large pot. You can add them directly from their package.
Next, pour in 6 cups of beef broth, followed by 4 cups of water. The combination of these two liquids will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Add 2 sprigs of fresh thyme to the pot. If you’re using dried thyme, use 1 teaspoon of it instead. The herbs will infuse into the soup as it simmers.
Finally, add 1 teaspoon of ground cumin to the pot. This spice will complement the flavors of the beans and ham, adding depth to your soup.
Once all of these ingredients are in the pot, place it over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let the soup simmer for 45 minutes, or until the navy beans have reached their desired tenderness.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 12 hours or until the beans are tender
To simmer the soup effectively, it’s essential to bring the liquid to a rolling boil initially, allowing all the ingredients to come together in harmony.
Once you’ve reached the boiling point, reduce the heat to low, creating a gentle simmer that will coax out the deep flavors and tenderize the beans over time.
The key to achieving perfectly cooked beans is to let them simmer for an extended period, allowing the liquid to penetrate deeply into their texture and break down any toughness or fibrousness.
For this Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup Recipe, we recommend simmering the soup for at least 12 hours on low heat, but feel free to adjust the cooking time based on your personal preference and the type of beans you’re using.
Some beans, like Navy or Cannellini beans, may become tender in as little as 8-10 hours, while others, such as Great Northern or Pinto beans, might require a full 12 hours to reach their desired level of doneness.
Remember to check on the soup periodically throughout the simmering process, ensuring that it’s not boiling over or drying out excessively, and making any necessary adjustments to the heat or liquid levels to maintain an ideal cooking environment.
By following this guideline for simmering time and paying close attention to your soup’s progress, you’ll be rewarded with a rich, creamy, and deliciously tender Mom’s Ham and Bean Soup that’s sure to become a family favorite!
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