Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup

Name: Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 2 h
Total time: 2 h 15 min
Yield: 8 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight; 2 cups diced ham; 1 onion, chopped; 2 carrots, diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 8 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and black pepper to taste

Highlighted under: One Pot Meals | Easy Comfort

I love cozying up with a comforting bowl of Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup, especially on chilly nights. This recipe has become a staple in my home because it’s so easy to make and packed with flavor. The combination of tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic vegetables creates a satisfying dish that's both hearty and nourishing. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use leftover ham! Let me share this delightful recipe with you; it has truly brought warmth and joy to our table.

Created by

Wendys

Last updated on 2026-02-14T16:42:19.142Z

Before discovering this recipe, I often found myself stuck with leftover ham after holiday feasts. However, once I tried this Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup, I knew I had found the perfect solution. The long, slow cooking method allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a thick and hearty soup that's both filling and incredibly delicious.

One of my favorite tips is to soak the beans overnight, which not only speeds up the cooking process but also enhances their texture. I’ve experimented with different beans and herbs, and each time, I’ve been delighted by how versatile this soup can be. It’s truly a favorite in my household!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling with every spoonful
Perfectly seasoned with herbs and spices
Great for using up leftover holiday ham

      

The Role of Beans

Dried navy beans are the star ingredient in this soup, and their creamy texture comes from the natural starches released during cooking. Soaking the beans overnight not only speeds up cooking time but also promotes even cooking, ensuring they become tender without breaking apart. If you're in a pinch, canned beans can substitute; just rinse them well and add during the final simmer for about 30 minutes.

The beans slurp up the flavors from the broth and seasonings, making each bite incredibly flavorful. To ensure they retain their shape and consistency, be careful not to over-simmer once they become tender; otherwise, you’ll end up with a mushy soup.

Flavor Building Techniques

Starting with a hot oil base helps to release the flavors from the onions, carrots, and celery, a technique known as 'sautéing.' Aim for a golden hue on the vegetables to develop a rich foundation for your soup. This process enhances the sweetness of the veggies and deepens the overall flavor profile of the dish.

After adding garlic and ham, let them sauté briefly for 2-3 minutes until the garlic is fragrant but not browned—burned garlic can impart a bitter taste. This timing creates a perfect aromatic base that complements the broth and beans beautifully.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup is a fantastic make-ahead dish; the flavors only deepen after a night in the fridge. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth to loosen the soup as it thickens when chilled. You can also freeze this hearty soup for up to 3 months—just make sure to cool it completely before freezing in portions.

Serve it warm with a crusty piece of bread or a simple green salad for a balanced meal. For a touch of freshness, garnish each bowl with chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil. You can also serve it with hot sauce on the side to let guests customize the heat level!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Slow Simmered Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
2 cups diced ham
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
8 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your flavorful soup:

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Ham

Stir in the minced garlic and diced ham, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Combine Remaining Ingredients

Add the soaked beans, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot. Stir to combine.

Simmer the Soup

Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, then season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Garnish with fresh herbs if desired before serving!

Pro Tips

For an even richer flavor, try adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup.

Dietary Adjustments

If you're looking to make the soup vegetarian or vegan, omitting the ham is the easiest adjustment. Consider using smoked paprika or liquid smoke to introduce some depth and complexity to the flavor profile. Additionally, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth to keep the savory depth without meat.

For those watching sodium intake, low-sodium broth is available and can help manage your salt levels. Remember to taste and season according to your preference, as using a lower-sodium base may require more attention during flavor building.

Customizing Your Soup

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to this soup! Spinach, kale, or potatoes can be added during the last 30 minutes of cooking for added nutrition and variety. If you're in the mood for spice, diced jalapeños or red pepper flakes can be a delightful addition.

For a different flavor twist, experiment with herbs like rosemary or oregano instead of thyme. Each herb brings its own subtleties, transforming the classic recipe into a new experience!

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your soup is too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water during the simmering process to achieve your desired consistency. Stirring occasionally will help you monitor the texture as it cooks. Conversely, if the soup is too thin, let it simmer uncovered for a while to allow some liquid to evaporate.

Lastly, if you find the soup lacking in flavor after cooking, a squeeze of fresh lemon juice or a dash of vinegar can brighten it up significantly. This simple trick can enhance the overall taste and is a great way to elevate a comforting dish like this.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely! If using canned beans, rinse and drain them, and add them in for the last 20-30 minutes of cooking.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze it for up to 3 months.

→ Can I add other vegetables?

Yes! Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrients.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad.