Navy bean soup with ham –Y’all, if you’re in the mood for something warm, filling, and downright delicious, let me introduce you to this Navy Bean Soup, seasoned with a touch of ham. It’s a classic comfort food that feels like a hug in a bowl. Perfect for those chilly nights or whenever you want to indulge in some hearty goodness. Let’s dive into this soul-satisfying recipe!
Navy Bean Soup Recipe (Hearty Ham Version)
Check out this lovely bowl of goodness!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound navy beans
- 8 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound ham, diced (you can use leftover ham or a ham hock for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- First things first, you need to soak those beans! Rinse ’em off and then soak in water overnight—or at least for 6 hours. Drain and rinse again before cooking.
- In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and 8 cups of fresh water. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for about an hour. This is where the magic begins and those beans start getting tender.
- Now, in another pan, sauté the onions, carrots, and celery until they’re soft. This takes about 5-7 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another minute. It’s all about building that flavor, folks!
- Add the sautéed vegetables to the pot with the beans. Toss in the diced ham, bay leaves, thyme, and some salt and pepper. Give it a good stir, cover, and continue to simmer for another 30-40 minutes, or until the beans are fully tender.
- Keep tasting as you go. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or even a splash of hot sauce if you’re feeling spicy!
- Once it’s all done, take out the bay leaves, ladle that soup into bowls, and top it with fresh parsley for a bit of color. Enjoy this delightful dish with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a full experience.
Trust me, this Navy Bean Soup will have everyone coming back for seconds—it’s just that good! So gather your loved ones, ladle up, and enjoy a meal that warms the heart as much as it fills the belly. Happy cooking!