Every time I make this Holiday Ham and Bean Soup, it takes me back to cozy winter evenings at my grandmother’s kitchen table. The aroma of the simmering soup would fill the air, wrapping us in warmth and comfort as we gathered around to share stories and laughter. I remember how my family would huddle close, excited for the first taste, and as we dug in, you could see the joy on everyone’s faces. This soup is more than just a meal; it’s a wonderful way to create memories with your loved ones. I know once you try it, you’ll feel the same warmth and contentment that comes from sharing a delicious bowl of homemade soup.
How to make Holiday Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients:
- Ham steak: This is the star of the show! The smoky flavor adds richness and depth to the soup.
- Canned white beans: They bring hearty protein and a lovely creaminess, making the soup filling.
- Onions: They give a sweet and savory base to the dish, perfect for sautéing.
- Carrots: Sweet and colorful, they add a nice crunch and flavor.
- Celery: The crunch and freshness of celery balance the dish beautifully.
- Garlic: A must-have! It adds a fragrant touch and enhances the flavors.
- Key spices (salt, pepper, thyme, bay leaf): These seasonings tie everything together, making each spoonful delightful.
Now, let me share a few personal notes. If you’re feeling a bit adventurous, you can add in some fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme to amp up the flavor even more. And if you don’t have ham steak on hand, leftover ham from your holiday roast works wonders too!
Cooking Steps:
-
Sauté the veggies: First, grab a large pot and heat it up over medium heat. Chop your onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Once the pot is warm, add a touch of olive oil and toss in those lovely veggies. You’ll want to cook them until they’re softened, about 5-7 minutes. The smell will be so inviting!
-
Brown the ham: Next, it’s time to add the diced ham steak. Stir it in and let it cook until it gets a bit of color, about 5 minutes. This makes the flavors pop! Trust me, you’ll want those crispy bits.
-
Add the beans: Now stir in the canned white beans. They’re already cooked, so this is easy peasy! Add just enough water or broth to cover everything nicely. I often use chicken broth because it gives a richer taste, but vegetable stock works great too if you’d like it lighter.
-
Season it up: Time to sprinkle in your salt, pepper, thyme, and a bay leaf. The combination of these spices is what truly brings this soup to life! Give it a good stir, making sure everything is blended.
-
Bring to a boil: Raise the heat a little until your soup starts to bubble. Once you see those bubbles, lower the heat back down and let it simmer. I usually let mine simmer for about 30 minutes. It’s the perfect time to enjoy a cup of tea while you wait!
-
Adjust and serve: After 30 minutes, give it a taste. This is your opportunity to adjust the seasoning as needed. If it could use a bit more salt or pepper, now is the time! Once it’s to your liking, ladle it into bowls and serve warm.
Why I Love Making This Dish:
This soup is special to me because it’s more than just a recipe; it’s a way to bring family together. The simplicity of the ingredients reminds me of home-cooked meals when we would share our days around the table. It’s a comforting dish that never fails to impress family and friends. Plus, it fills the house with an aroma that warms the heart—there’s just something magical about that!
What You’ll Need:
You’ll need a large pot and a cutting board for chopping. I always recommend a sturdy wooden spoon for stirring—the kind that feels good in your hands as you make this soup with love.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Preheat the kitchen with that warm, inviting smell—trust me, this helps set the mood!
- Chop your vegetables and let the chopping board be your best friend as you pour your energy into those fresh ingredients.
- Heat up your pot and sauté away; take a moment to enjoy the smell wafting through your home.
- Add your ham and hear that satisfying sizzle. It’s music to my ears!
- Stir in the beans and broth—this is when it starts to look like a soup!
- Season with herbs and spices, imagining how lovely each flavor will be when they meld together.
- Bring it to a boil, and then let it simmer while you sip on something warm.
- Finally, taste and adjust. You’re the chef here; make it just how you love it!
Tips for Perfect Results:
To make the skin crispier or the meat juicier, I always suggest cooking it low and slow. Simmering gently allows everything to come together perfectly. If you’re in a hurry, it’s okay to speed up the cooking process a little, but trust me, the flavors will deepen with extra time. And remember, don’t skip that tasting step at the end—it’s where the magic really happens!
Serving Suggestions and Sides:
This soup is delicious on its own, but I love pairing it with crusty bread or a simple side salad. A touch of homemade cornbread on the side fits perfectly, too! If you have some fresh herbs on hand, sprinkle those on top just before serving for a gorgeous finish.
Leftovers:
If you happen to have any leftovers (which I doubt because it’s so good!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. It’ll last about 3-4 days. Reheat it gently on the stove and add a splash of broth if it thickens up too much. You might just find that it tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop!
FAQ Section:
Can I use different beans? Absolutely! I love using great northern beans or navy beans, but feel free to use whatever you have on hand.
What if I don’t have ham steak? No worries at all. Any leftover ham or even diced bacon works nicely! Just remember to adjust the cooking time if you’re using raw bacon so it gets crispy.
Is it okay to freeze this soup? Yes! It freezes beautifully. Just be sure to cool it completely before transferring to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer.
This Holiday Ham and Bean Soup has become a staple in my home, and I’m so excited for you to give it a try! I know you’ll love the warmth it brings to your kitchen. Share it with your loved ones and enjoy the moments spent together. Let me know how it turns out—the smiles and satisfied sighs around the table will make it all worth it!