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Irresistible Ham and Bean Soup Recipe for Perfect Cozy Nights

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A warm, hearty bowl of ham and bean soup that feels like a big hug on a chilly evening. Perfect for weeknight dinners or comforting weekend meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 cups diced ham or a ham bone
  • 2 cups Great Northern beans or cannellini beans
  • 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 2 celery stalks, sliced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

  1. Soak the beans overnight in water if using dried beans. Drain and rinse before using. Skip this step if using canned beans.
  2. Chop the onion, carrots, celery, and garlic. Set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, or until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
  4. Stir in the diced ham, drained beans, and smoked paprika. Mix well to combine.
  5. Pour in the chicken broth, add the bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.
  6. Let the soup simmer gently for about 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally. If using a ham bone, let it simmer for at least 2 hours for maximum flavor.
  7. Remove the ham bone and shred any remaining meat back into the soup. Discard the bone.
  8. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or paprika as needed.
  9. Ladle into bowls and enjoy warm. Garnish with fresh parsley or a drizzle of olive oil, if desired.

Notes

[‘Use a ham bone for added depth of flavor.’, ‘Taste as you go to avoid over-salting.’, ‘For a creamier texture, blend a small portion of the soup and stir it back in.’, ‘The soup freezes well for up to 3 months.’]

Nutrition

Keywords: ham and bean soup, cozy soup recipe, hearty soup, easy dinner, comfort food, budget-friendly recipe

Find it online: https://norasfoods.com/irresistible-ham-and-bean-soup-recipe-for-perfect-cozy-nights/