When the chilly breezes of autumn begin to swirl and the days shorten, there’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup to wrap you in warmth and comfort. Imagine walking into your kitchen, where the rich aroma of simmering ham and tender butter beans envelops you like a soft blanket. The sizzle of vegetables meeting the heat, the herbaceous notes of thyme and parsley coaxing your senses, and the anticipation of that first blissful spoonful awaits. Ham Butter Bean Soup transforms the ordinary into an extraordinary experience, a culinary embrace that nourishes body and soul.
This delightful soup combines the hearty goodness of smoked ham hock and butter beans, balancing the deep, savory flavors with the freshness of garden herbs. The vibrant colors of diced carrots, celery, and onions dance in your pot, offering both texture and taste that invite you to dive in. As the ingredients meld together, you can’t help but crave the smoke-kissed ham, tender beans, and the subtle complexity achieved by slow-simmering. Every bowl promises a hearty bite that comforts and satisfies, perfect for those cozy evenings spent at home.
Why You’ll Love This Ham Butter Bean Soup
The best comfort foods tell stories, and Ham Butter Bean Soup comes with a sumptuous narrative of tradition, family, and heartwarming gatherings. This soup deserves a place at your table not just because it’s delicious, but because it’s versatile. It shines at casual weeknight dinners, elaborate holiday feasts, or when you crave a rich meal that feels like a warm hug. Its cozy nature nourishes not just our bodies, but feeds our souls, bringing people together over shared bowls and hearty bread.
And let’s not forget how practical it can be. This recipe allows for flexibility and customization, making it a perfect vehicle for pantry leftovers or seasonal vegetables. You can whip this up as a make-ahead dish, filling your freezer with easy meals for those busy days ahead. Rich in protein and fiber from the beans, and infused with the bold flavors of herbs and spices, every spoonful revitalizes your spirit and fills your belly.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before diving into the process, it’s essential to gather a few kitchen superheroes that will help create your delicious masterpiece.
- Large Soup Pot or Dutch Oven: This trusty vessel allows for even cooking and perfect simmering, essential for melding those incredible flavors over time.
- Wooden Spoon: A simple yet effective tool for stirring without scratching your pot, ensuring even distribution of flavors and preventing any sticking.
- Cutting Board and Sharp Knife: For effortless chopping of vegetables, a sharp knife makes prep smooth and quick, paving the way to a seamless cooking experience.
Preparation Tips:
- If using dried butter beans, don’t overlook the soaking step. This crucial phase helps to enhance their texture, ensuring they become as creamy as they are tender in the soup.
- Minimize prep time by using pre-diced ham or frozen vegetable mixes if you’re in a rush. Every little shortcut helps when you need a delicious meal on the table quickly.
Ingredients for Ham Butter Bean Soup
- 1 pound smoked ham hock or diced ham
- 2 cups dried butter beans or 3 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Hot sauce for serving
- Crusty bread for serving
Each ingredient plays a pivotal role in creating the layers of flavor. Smoked ham hock brings an unparalleled depth of smoky richness, while butter beans add a creamy texture that transforms the soup into a luxurious meal. For substitutions, feel free to swap the ham for turkey or a vegetarian option, ensuring everyone can savor this comforting delight.
How to Make Ham Butter Bean Soup
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Soak the Beans: If you choose to use dried butter beans, soak them overnight in plenty of cold water. This helps them soften and cook evenly. Drain and rinse them before use.
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Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
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Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about one minute until your kitchen fills with its aromatic essence.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the ham hock (or diced ham), soaked butter beans (or canned beans), chicken broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
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Bring to a Boil and Simmer: Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 1 hour (or 45 minutes if using canned beans), stirring occasionally until the beans are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
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Shred the Ham: Once cooked, remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return the tender pieces to the pot. Discard the bone, excess fat, and bay leaves.
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Finish the Soup: Stir in the fresh parsley and chives, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
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Serve: Ladle the fragrant soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs and a dash of hot sauce, if desired. There’s nothing better than pairing it with a slice of crusty bread to soak up every delicious drop.
Chef’s Notes & Helpful Tips
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Make-ahead Tips: This soup develops even more flavor when made a day ahead. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge. Simply reheat on the stove when you’re ready to serve.
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Cooking Alternatives: You can also make this soup in a slow cooker. After sautéing the vegetables, combine everything and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or on high for about 3 to 4 hours.
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Customization Ideas: Consider adding leafy greens like kale or spinach in the last five minutes of cooking for added nutrition. You can also play with spices, adding smoked paprika for a smoky kick or red pepper flakes for heat.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Not Soaking the Dried Beans: Skipping this step can lead to tough beans that do not soften properly. Be sure to soak them overnight for optimal results.
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Using Regular Ham: If you choose a lean ham without the smoky flavor, the soup may lack that deep, rich taste. Opt for smoked ham or bacon for a more satisfying experience.
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Overcooking the Vegetables: Sautéing too long can lead to mushy vegetables. Aim for a perfect tender-crisp texture to maintain vibrancy and bite.
What to Serve With Ham Butter Bean Soup
- Crusty Bread: Nothing beats the classic pairing of warm, crusty bread to scoop up this hearty soup.
- Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, olives, and a light vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Pair this meal with roasted seasonal vegetables, their caramelized sweetness providing a beautiful contrast.
- Cheese Toasties: Grilled cheese sandwiches make delightful dipping companions that bring an extra layer of comfort.
- Biscuits: Flaky, buttery biscuits bring a southern charm to your bowl of soup.
- Pickles: A side of tangy pickles offers a delightful crunch and acidity to balance the richness of the soup.
- Cornbread: Sweet, buttery cornbread pairs beautifully, creating a warm and rustic dining experience.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, in an airtight container to keep it fresh. For longer storage, freeze in portions for up to 3 months. The flavors will continue to develop, making it even more delectable when reheated. Simply thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm gently on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Estimated Nutrition Information
Please note that nutrition information may vary based on portion size and ingredient changes. On average, one serving (about 1.5 cups) contains approximately:
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 25g
- Fat: 8g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Sodium: 600mg
These values are estimates only; please check with your specific ingredients and brands for accuracy.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely! Canned butter beans make this soup quicker to prepare. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the pot, reducing your cooking time.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
Replace the ham with smoked tempeh or sautéed mushrooms. Use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth for a delicious plant-based version.
3. What’s the best way to store leftover soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Allow it to cool before placing it in the fridge for best results.
4. Can I freeze Ham Butter Bean Soup?
Yes! This soup freezes wonderfully. Portion it out in freezer-safe bags or containers and enjoy it within three months.
5. How do I enhance the flavor of my soup?
Experiment with different herbs and spices! Adding some smoked paprika, bay leaves, or a splash of vinegar can elevate your soup’s profile even further.
Conclusion
Now that you have the keys to unlock the flavors and warmth of Ham Butter Bean Soup, it’s time to head into your kitchen and create your very own masterpiece. This soup not only fills your belly but also fills your home with aromas that beckon family and friends to the table. So gather your ingredients and let the comforting magic of this dish tantalize your tastebuds. You deserve to savor each spoonful!
Print
Ham Butter Bean Soup
- Total Time: 75 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and hearty soup with smoked ham hock and butter beans, infused with fresh herbs and spices, perfect for chilly evenings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked ham hock or diced ham
- 2 cups dried butter beans or 3 cans (15 ounces each) butter beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 cups water
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped, plus extra for garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh chives, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Salt to taste
- Hot sauce for serving
- Crusty bread for serving
Instructions
- Soak the beans: If you choose to use dried butter beans, soak them overnight in plenty of cold water. This helps them soften and cook evenly. Drain and rinse them before use.
- Sauté the vegetables: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, and celery, sautéing for 5 to 7 minutes until they become tender and fragrant.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for about one minute until your kitchen fills with its aromatic essence.
- Combine ingredients: Add the ham hock (or diced ham), soaked butter beans (or canned beans), chicken broth, water, bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to the pot. Stir well.
- Bring to a boil and simmer: Raise the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Allow it to cook uncovered for 1 hour (or 45 minutes if using canned beans), stirring occasionally until the beans are tender and the flavors meld beautifully.
- Shred the ham: Once cooked, remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return the tender pieces to the pot. Discard the bone, excess fat, and bay leaves.
- Finish the soup: Stir in the fresh parsley and chives, then taste and adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
- Serve: Ladle the fragrant soup into bowls and serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs and a dash of hot sauce, if desired. Pair with a slice of crusty bread.
Notes
This soup develops even more flavor when made a day ahead. Store in the fridge and reheat on the stove when ready to serve.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 60 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1.5 cups
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 12g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 50mg