Imagine a steaming bowl of hearty Navy Bean Soup that transports you straight to grandma's kitchen, where every spoonful tells a story of warmth and tradition. This classic American comfort dish isn't just a meal—it's a culinary hug that combines tender navy beans, savory ham, and a medley of vegetables into a soul-satisfying experience that will make your taste buds dance with delight. Whether you're battling a chilly evening or craving a nutritious, protein-packed meal, this recipe is your ultimate comfort food solution!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 1 hrs
Total Time: 1 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound navy beans, soaked overnight
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 cup diced ham
- 6 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh thyme for garnish
Instructions
- Begin by soaking the navy beans overnight in a large bowl of water. This will help soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans under cold water to remove any impurities. Set aside.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the diced carrots and celery to the pot. Sauté the vegetables for an additional 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
- Stir in the diced ham and cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.
- Next, add the soaked navy beans to the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and allow the soup to cook for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
- During the last 10 minutes of cooking, taste the soup and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Once the beans are tender and the soup is flavorful, remove the pot from the heat. If desired, you can use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the beans for a creamier texture.
- Serve the navy bean soup hot, garnished with fresh thyme for added flavor and presentation. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Soaking Secrets: Always soak beans overnight to ensure even cooking and reduce digestive discomfort. Pro tip: Add a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water to help soften beans faster.
- Flavor Layering: Sauté your vegetables in olive oil before adding other ingredients to develop a deeper, more complex flavor profile.
- Ham Hack: Use a mix of diced ham and ham bone for an extra rich, smoky taste that elevates the entire soup.
- Texture Control: For a creamier soup, mash about a quarter of the beans during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Storage Wisdom: This soup tastes even better the next day! Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
- Garnish Game: Fresh thyme is classic, but try adding crispy bacon bits or a dollop of sour cream for extra indulgence.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 25mg
