Do you want a soup that makes you feel cozy? Try the Navy Bean Ham Soup! It’s a favorite in many homes. It has soft beans, salty ham, and fresh veggies in a tasty broth.
Table of Contents
Navy Bean Smoked Turkey Soup
Equipment
- Large pot
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
- Knife
- Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans soaked overnight
- 6 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup diced celery
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup diced smoked turkey as ham substitute
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar optional, for extra flavor
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
Sauté Vegetables:
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
Add Garlic and Seasonings:
- Stir in minced garlic, black pepper, thyme, and bay leaf, cooking for another minute.
Simmer with Broth:
- Pour in the vegetable broth and add drained navy beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
Add Smoked Turkey:
- Stir in the diced smoked turkey and continue simmering for another 30 minutes until the beans are tender.
Finish and Serve:
- Remove the bay leaf, stir in apple cider vinegar (if using), and adjust seasoning with salt. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve warm.
Nutrition
Introduction to Navy Bean Ham Soup
Navy beans, also known as haricot beans, are the main ingredient in this soup. They are small, oval-shaped white beans. These beans are not only tasty but also very good for you.
What Are Navy Beans?
Navy beans are also called white beans or pea beans. They are small and creamy. They are loved in many soups and stews around the world.
These beans have a mild, sweet taste. They soak up the flavors of other ingredients well.
Nutritional Benefits of Navy Beans
- Protein-rich: Navy beans are a great source of plant-based protein. They are good for a balanced diet.
- Fiber-packed: They have a lot of fiber. This helps with digestion and gut health.
- Nutrient-dense: These beans are full of vitamins and minerals like folate, manganese, and thiamine.
- Low in fat: Navy beans are low in fat. This makes them good for your heart.
- Complex carbohydrates: Their carbs are complex. They give you energy and help keep blood sugar stable.
Eating navy beans, like in Navy Bean Ham Soup, is great for your health. They are versatile and very nutritious.
“Navy beans are a powerhouse of nutrition, packed with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins that support overall health. They’re a game-changer in any soup or stew.”
Ingredients You’ll Need for the Soup
To make our delicious Navy Bean Ham Soup, you’ll need a few important ingredients. They work together to make a comforting and tasty dish. Let’s look at what you’ll need:
Key Ingredients
- Navy Beans – These small white beans make the soup creamy and hearty.
- Smoked Ham Hocks – They add a savory and smoky flavor to the broth.
- Vegetable Broth – This liquid base brings all the flavors together.
- Celery, Carrots, and Onions – These veggies add a nice balance of flavors.
- Bay Leaves and Thyme – These herbs and spices make the soup taste better.
- Garlic – Minced garlic adds an extra flavor boost.
Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
You can also add some extras to make the soup even better:
- Diced Potatoes – They add heartiness and a creamy texture.
- Spinach or Kale – These greens boost the soup’s vitamins and minerals.
- Salt and Pepper – Adjust the seasoning to your liking.
Using high-quality, fresh ingredients is key. It makes a big difference in how good the Navy Bean Ham Soup tastes.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
Before we start cooking, let’s get the ingredients ready. First, soak the navy beans overnight. This makes them cook faster and taste better. Rinse and drain them, then set them aside.
Next, chop the onions, celery, and carrots into small pieces. And remember, cut the ham into big chunks.
Cooking the Soup
Now, it’s time to cook! In a big pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onions, celery, and carrots in olive oil. Do this over medium heat until they’re soft and smell good, about 5-7 minutes. This is where the cooking instructions and simmering soup really come into play!
After the veggies are done, add the navy beans, ham, chicken broth, and your favorite seasonings. Use bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper. Bring it to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours. This lets the beans get tender and the flavors mix well.
Don’t forget to take out the bay leaves before you serve. The secret to great navy bean and ham soup is slow simmering. It makes the flavors rich and the beans creamy.
“The secret to the best navy bean soup is in the long, slow simmer. It’s worth the wait for that rich, comforting flavor.”
Tips for Perfectly Cooked Navy Bean Ham Soup
Making navy bean ham soup is a bit of work, but it’s worth it. Here are some tips to make your soup perfect every time.
Soaking and Cooking the Beans
Soaking navy beans overnight is a big help. It makes them cook faster and easier to digest. If you’re in a hurry, use the quick-soak method. Boil the beans, then let them sit for an hour before cooking.
For cooking, slow and low is best. Let the beans simmer for 1-2 hours. This makes them tender and creamy. Watch the liquid, adding more as needed to keep the soup right.
Adjusting Seasoning to Taste
Start with a little salt. The ham can be salty, so taste and adjust. A bit of vinegar or lemon juice can also enhance the flavor.
The soup will thicken as it cools. If it seems too thin while cooking, add more broth. This will get it to the right consistency.
| Recipe Stat | Value |
|---|---|
| Rating | 4.99 out of 5 from 400 votes |
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 1 hour and 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 1 hour and 40 minutes |
| Servings | 6 people |
| Calories per Serving | 293 calories |
Follow these tips for a soaking beans and seasoning tips masterpiece. Enjoy your homemade navy bean ham soup!
Serving Suggestions
Navy Bean Ham Soup is a hearty dish. It goes well with many sides. Try it with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping.
A green salad or roasted veggies are also good. They add a fresh touch to the soup.
Ideal Side Dishes
- Crusty bread or cornbread
- Fresh green salad
- Roasted vegetables (such as carrots, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus)
- Cornmeal muffins or biscuits
- Garlic-parmesan toast
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Navy Bean Ham Soup tastes even better the next day. Cool it down before putting it in airtight containers. Store it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze it in freezer-safe containers. Keep it frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it.
“The great thing about this soup is that it gets better with time. The flavors really meld together, and it’s just as delicious, if not more so, the next day.”
| Serving Suggestion | Preparation Time | Cooking Time |
|---|---|---|
| Crusty Bread | 5 minutes | N/A |
| Green Salad | 10 minutes | N/A |
| Roasted Vegetables | 15 minutes | 30-40 minutes |
| Cornmeal Muffins | 20 minutes | 15-20 minutes |
Variations of Navy Bean Ham Soup
Navy bean ham soup is a classic comfort food. It doesn’t have to be just one recipe. You can make it vegetarian or add different proteins to make it your own.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
For a meat-free version, leave out the ham. Use smoked paprika or a bit of liquid smoke for flavor. Add more bell peppers, zucchini, or other veggies for extra taste.
To make it vegan, use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth. Add nutritional yeast for a cheesy, umami taste.
Alternative Proteins to Use
- Turkey: Cubed or shredded turkey is a great ham substitute. It’s hearty and flavorful.
- Chicken: Diced or shredded chicken adds protein and goes well with navy beans.
- Smoked sausage: Try smoked sausage or kielbasa for a smoky twist. It’s savory and pairs well with beans.
Experiment with different variations to find what you like best. Navy bean ham soup is versatile. Each change brings something new and exciting.
Health Benefits of Navy Bean Ham Soup
Navy Bean Ham Soup is not just tasty. It’s also very good for you. Navy beans are full of fiber and help your digestion.
A half-cup of cooked navy beans has 9.6 grams of fiber. That’s almost half of what you need every. This fiber helps control blood sugar, keeps you full, and aids digestion.
Fiber Content and Digestive Health
Navy beans digest slowly. They have a low glycemic index, from 29 to 39. This helps keep your blood sugar steady. It’s good for people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome.
The fiber in navy beans also feeds good gut bacteria. This improves your gut health. Eating navy beans often can help with blood pressure and HDL cholesterol.
Heart Health and Cholesterol Management
Navy beans are also full of folate, which is great for heart health. Folate lowers homocysteine levels. High homocysteine levels can lead to heart disease.
Fiber, folate, and other nutrients in navy beans help keep cholesterol levels healthy. Eating navy bean ham soup is a tasty way to support your heart.
“Beans are one of the most nutritious and versatile foods you can eat. They’re packed with fiber, protein, and other essential nutrients that support overall health.”
What to Pair with Your Soup
A hearty and comforting dish like navy bean ham soup needs the right sides. You can pick classic pairings or try something new. There are many bread and drink options that will make your meal better.
Best Bread and Crackers
For the best bread, go for a crusty sourdough or whole grain rolls. They’re sturdy and have a tangy taste. This makes them great for soaking up the soup’s broth.
If you want something different, try homemade cornbread. It adds a Southern touch. Or, for something lighter, oyster crackers or garlic-herb crostini work well.
Recommended Wine and Beverage Pairings
For wine, a light red like Pinot Noir or a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc is good. They bring out the soup’s flavors.
For drinks without alcohol, try sparkling water with lemon or crisp apple cider. They offer a nice contrast to the savory soup.
Choosing the right bread or drink is key. It should balance the soup’s richness and match its unique taste. Try different things to find your favorite pairings.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
When making your navy bean ham soup, you might hit a few bumps. But don’t worry, I’ve got some easy tips to help. These will make sure your soup is perfect every time.
Dealing with Overcooked Beans
If your beans are too soft, don’t worry. Use a potato masher or the back of a spoon. Gently mash some beans against the pot’s side. This makes the soup creamy and velvety without starting over.
Thickening or Thinning the Soup
Maybe your soup consistency is off – too thick or too thin. No worries! To thicken, mix a cornstarch slurry. Whisk cornstarch with water, then stir it into the soup. Let it cook for a few minutes until it’s right.
If your soup is too thick, add more broth or water slowly. This will help it reach the perfect cooking tips for you. Remember, the soup will thicken as it cools. So, aim for a slightly thinner consistency while it’s hot.
Great navy bean ham soup takes patience. Beans need time to soften, especially older ones. Let your soup simmer longer if the beans aren’t tender yet. With a bit of practice, you’ll make amazing navy bean ham soup in no time!
“The secret to the perfect bean soup is in the small details – a little extra time, a gentle hand, and a whole lot of love.”
Navy Bean Ham Soup in Popular Culture
Navy bean ham soup is a favorite American comfort food. It’s loved in many homes across the country. This dish has become a key part of recipe books and cookbooks that celebrate traditional recipes.
Comfort Food in American Households
For many years, navy bean ham soup has been a favorite meal for families. It’s filling, affordable, and tastes great. Many families have their own special way of making it, showing its lasting place in American food.
Featured in Recipes and Cookbooks
Navy bean ham soup is often found in recipe books and cookbooks. It’s in classic American recipe books and modern healthy eating guides. This shows its lasting appeal and flexibility. It can be made in many ways, pleasing many people.
This soup is loved for its warmth, affordability, and ability to feed many. It’s a big part of American food culture. Navy bean ham soup keeps families and communities together, sharing meals.
“Navy bean ham soup is a timeless classic that has nourished generations of Americans. Its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of traditional recipes to bring people together and provide a sense of comfort and belonging.”
Conclusion: Enjoying Your Homemade Soup
Making your own Navy Bean Ham Soup is very rewarding. It gets better with time, perfect for meal prep. Feel free to try new herbs or veggies to make it yours.
Final Thoughts on Cooking Navy Bean Ham Soup
This soup will quickly become a favorite at home. It’s full of tender navy beans, savory ham, and great flavors. It’s a meal that warms your heart.
Encouragement to Experiment with Recipes
Cooking is fun, so enjoy the journey! Try new things and see what you like. Homemade soup is all about making it your own, and it’s very rewarding.
