This smoky white bean and ham soup is a comfort food classic, bursting with rich, hearty flavors. The combination of creamy white navy beans, smoky ham hocks, and a medley of vegetables makes this humble soup feel like a feast. It's a perfect dish for those chilly days when you crave something warm and satisfying.
The key ingredient that might not be a regular in your pantry is the smoked ham hocks. These are the lower segment of the pig that corresponds to the ankle or calf region. The hocks are traditionally smoked and they infuse a deep, smoky flavor into the soup. You can find them in the meat section of most supermarkets. Another ingredient to note is the dried white navy beans. These can be found in the dried beans section. They are small, pea-sized beans that are ivory or off-white in color.
Ingredients for Smoky White Bean and Ham Soup
White navy beans: These beans are small and pea-sized with a creamy texture when cooked. They form the base of the soup.
Ham hocks: Smoked ham hocks infuse a rich, smoky flavor into the soup.
Bay leaves: These leaves add a subtle, earthy flavor.
Onion: This vegetable adds depth to the flavor profile of the soup.
Carrots: They add a sweet note and vibrant color to the soup.
Celery: This vegetable adds a fresh, crisp flavor.
Tomatoes: They add a tangy flavor and a rich texture.
Garlic: This is a flavour booster.
Fresh thyme leaves: They add a fragrant, earthy flavor.
Kale: This leafy green adds color, texture, and a host of nutrients.
Olive oil: It's used for drizzling on top before serving.
Pecorino Romano: This is a hard, salty Italian cheese, used for grating over the soup before serving.
One reader, Barnebas Anaya says:
This smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the smokiness from the ham hocks adds a delightful depth. The blend of beans, veggies, and tender ham creates a hearty, satisfying dish that's perfect for chilly nights. I highly recommend it!
Cooking Techniques for Flavorful Results
Quick-soak the beans: This technique involves boiling the beans for a minute, then letting them sit for an hour to soften before draining them.
Remove the meat from the ham hocks: After the ham hocks have cooled, pull the meat from the hocks, discard any bone, fat, and tough sinew, and chop the meat finely.
How To Make Smoky White Bean and Ham Soup
This hearty ham soup is flavorfully packed with white beans and tender veggies, all cooked in a savory tomato broth, for a belly-filling meal!
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbdried white navy beans,or Great Northern beans, rinsed, checked for stones
- 6cupswater
- 4cupschicken stock
- 2bay leaves
- 1yellow onion,plus ½ cup minced, peeled, quartered
- 2lbssmoked ham hocks
- 2carrots,diced
- 2celery stalks,diced
- 14oztomatoes,(1 can), chopped or diced
- 4garlic cloves,minced
- 1tbspfresh thyme leaves,chopped
- salt
- 1½cupkale,or other dark leafy greens, chopped
For Serving:
- extra-virgin olive oil
- pecorino romano,or parmigiano reggiano, finely grated
Instructions
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Place the beans in a medium pot and cover with 2 to 3 inches of water. Bring to a boil over high heat and cook for 1 minute.
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Remove the pot from the heat and let sit for 1 hour. Drain in a colander.
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Place the drained beans into a 5.5-quart Dutch oven or large pot. Add the water, chicken stock, bay leaves, quartered onion, and ham hocks.
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Bring to a boil over high heat, then cover and simmer over low heat for about 1 hour, until the beans are just tender.
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Once the beans are tender, pull out the bay leaves, onion remnants, and ham hocks. Discard the bay leaves and onions, but set the ham hocks aside to cool.
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Add the minced onion, carrots, celery, tomatoes, garlic, thyme, and 2 teaspoons of salt to the pot. Increase the heat to medium and cook, uncovered, for 15 minutes.
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While the soup is cooking, and when the ham hocks are cool enough to handle, pull the meat from the hocks, discard any bone, fat, and tough sinew, and chop the meat finely.
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Use a ladle to transfer about 2 cups of the beans and vegetables, along with a bit of broth, to a blender or food processor. Purée until smooth, and then stir the mixture back into the soup.
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Add the meat and kale to the soup and simmer over medium-low heat for 5 minutes more. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, if necessary.
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Garnish each bowl with a drizzle with olive oii and a heap of grated cheese, serve, and enjoy!
Nutrition
- Calories: 530.22kcal
- Fat: 21.34g
- Saturated Fat: 5.18g
- Trans Fat: 0.08g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 11.23g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 3.19g
- Carbohydrates: 45.24g
- Fiber: 10.34g
- Sugar: 7.07g
- Protein: 41.26g
- Cholesterol: 72.77mg
- Sodium: 1327.72mg
- Calcium: 126.55mg
- Potassium: 1420.98mg
- Iron: 4.87mg
- Vitamin A: 170.02µg
- Vitamin C: 14.02mg
Expert Advice for Perfecting the Smoky Flavor
When preparing the smoked ham hocks, it's essential to let them cool completely before attempting to pull the meat off. This not only makes the process easier, but it also prevents potential burns. Additionally, when chopping the meat, aim for small, bite-sized pieces. This will ensure that each spoonful of your soup has a balanced mix of all the ingredients, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Hearty Soup
Quick soak: To save time, use the quick soak method for the dried white navy beans. This will cut down the soaking time significantly.
Pressure cooker: Consider using a pressure cooker to cook the beans and ham hocks. It can significantly reduce the cooking time and still yield flavorful results.
Prep ahead: Chop and prepare the vegetables and ham hocks in advance, so when it's time to cook, everything is ready to go.
Frozen vegetables: If you're short on time, consider using frozen pre-chopped vegetables to skip the prep work.
Crockpot: Utilize a crockpot or slow cooker for this recipe. It allows for a hands-off approach and the flavors meld beautifully over time.
Blender shortcut: Instead of using a blender, consider using an immersion blender directly in the pot for a quicker pureeing process.
Store-bought broth: Opt for store-bought chicken stock instead of making it from scratch to save time without compromising flavor.
Leftover ham: If you have leftover ham, consider using it instead of ham hocks for a quicker cooking process.
Instant pot: Utilize an instant pot for a faster cooking time while still achieving the same delicious smoky flavors.
Canned beans: In a time crunch, canned white beans can be used as a shortcut, although the texture and flavor may vary slightly.
Substitute Ingredients For Smoky White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe
dried white navy beans - Substitute with cannellini beans: Cannellini beans have a similar creamy texture and mild flavor, making them a great substitute for white navy beans in this soup recipe.
smoked ham hocks - Substitute with smoked turkey legs: Smoked turkey legs can provide a similar smoky flavor and meatiness to the soup as smoked ham hocks, while offering a leaner alternative.
kale - Substitute with swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for kale, providing a similar earthy flavor and hearty texture to the soup.
pecorino romano - Substitute with parmesan: Parmesan cheese can be used as a substitute for pecorino romano, offering a similar salty and nutty flavor to enhance the soup.
Serving Suggestions for a Delightful Presentation
Elevate the soup with a stunning presentation: When plating the smoky white bean and ham soup, ensure that the bowl is clean and free of any drips or spills. The soup should be the star of the show, so use a wide, shallow bowl to showcase the beautiful colors and textures of the dish.
Garnish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil: Just before serving, drizzle a small amount of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil over the soup. This not only adds a luxurious sheen to the dish but also enhances the flavors with its rich, fruity notes.
Sprinkle with finely grated pecorino romano: To add a touch of indulgence, sprinkle a generous amount of finely grated pecorino romano over the soup. The salty, nutty flavor of the cheese complements the smokiness of the ham and the creaminess of the beans.
Consider the placement of the kale: When adding the chopped kale to the soup, strategically place it on top of the soup rather than mixing it in. This allows the vibrant green color of the kale to pop against the earthy tones of the soup, creating a visually appealing contrast.
Use a minimalistic approach to plating: Embrace simplicity in plating the soup. Avoid overcrowding the bowl with too many elements, and instead, focus on creating a clean, elegant presentation that highlights the rustic beauty of the dish.
Ensure the soup is piping hot: Before serving, make sure the soup is heated to the perfect temperature. The aroma of the smoky ham and beans should waft from the bowl, enticing the senses and preparing the palate for an exceptional dining experience.
Incorporate a touch of finesse with a soup tureen: For a sophisticated touch, consider serving the smoky white bean and ham soup in a stylish soup tureen at the table. This adds an element of drama and allows guests to admire the dish before it is portioned out.
Emphasize the rustic charm of the dish: When presenting the soup, embrace the rustic nature of the ingredients. Highlight the hearty, comforting appeal of the smoky white bean and ham soup by allowing its natural, unpretentious beauty to shine through.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making This Soup
Dutch oven: A heavy-duty pot with a tight-fitting lid, ideal for slow-cooking soups, stews, and braises.
Colander: A perforated bowl used for draining liquids from foods such as pasta or rinsing fruits and vegetables.
Blender: A kitchen appliance used to blend, puree, or emulsify food and other substances.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for slicing, chopping, shredding, and pureeing ingredients.
Ladle: A long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Grater: A kitchen tool with a rough surface used to shred or grate ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Mixing bowl: A bowl used for combining ingredients, mixing batters, and preparing salads or dressings.
Cutting board: A durable board used as a surface for cutting, slicing, and chopping ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to accurately measure dry and liquid ingredients for recipes.
Stovetop: The cooking surface on top of a stove, used for heating and cooking food in pots and pans.
Refrigerator: An appliance used for storing and preserving perishable food items at low temperatures.
Freezer: A compartment in a refrigerator or a separate appliance used for freezing and storing food at very low temperatures.
Storage and Freezing Guidelines for Leftover Soup
- Let the smoky white bean and ham soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or freezer-safe bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- Label the container or bag with the name of the soup and the date it was made.
- If storing in the refrigerator, the soup will keep for up to 3-4 days.
- When ready to reheat, transfer the refrigerated soup to a pot and heat over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If freezing, the soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To thaw frozen soup, transfer it from the freezer to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, reheat the soup in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. You may need to add a little water or chicken stock to thin out the soup if it has thickened during freezing.
- Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper, if needed, before serving the reheated soup.
- Garnish with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and freshly grated pecorino romano cheese before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Smoky White Bean and Ham Soup
The best way to reheat leftover smoky white bean and ham soup is on the stovetop. Pour the desired amount of soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches your desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the soup is heated evenly without scorching or burning.
If you're in a hurry, you can also reheat the soup in the microwave. Transfer the desired portion to a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel to prevent splatters. Heat the soup on high power in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it's heated through. Be careful when removing the bowl from the microwave, as it may be hot.
For a creamier texture, you can add a splash of chicken stock or water to the soup while reheating it on the stovetop or in the microwave. This will help loosen up the soup and make it more like its original consistency.
If you find that the beans have absorbed a lot of the liquid and the soup is too thick, you can thin it out by adding more chicken stock or water until you reach your desired consistency. Be sure to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning accordingly, as adding more liquid may dilute the flavors.
To add a fresh twist to your leftover soup, consider garnishing it with a dollop of sour cream, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like thyme or parsley, or some crispy bacon bits. These toppings will add new flavors and textures to the soup, making it feel like a brand new meal.
Interesting Trivia About White Bean and Ham Soup
The smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is a hearty and nutritious dish that can be easily frozen for up to three months, making it a convenient make-ahead meal. This soup is packed with protein and fiber from the white navy beans and ham hocks, providing a satisfying and filling meal. The addition of kale adds a boost of vitamins and minerals, enhancing the nutritional value of the dish. The smoky flavor from the ham hocks gives the soup a rich and savory taste, making it a comforting and flavorful option for a cozy meal.
Budget-Friendly: Is This Soup Economical for Home Cooking?
This smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is highly cost-effective for a household. The use of affordable ingredients such as dried white navy beans, smoked ham hocks, and vegetables makes it a budget-friendly option. The hearty nature of the soup also means it can serve as a main dish, reducing the need for additional expensive proteins. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $15, making it an economical and satisfying meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Soup Recipe Healthy or Unhealthy?
This smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is a nutritious and hearty meal, packed with protein, fiber, and various vitamins and minerals. The use of white navy beans provides a good source of plant-based protein and fiber, which can help with digestion and maintaining a feeling of fullness. The inclusion of vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and kale adds essential nutrients and antioxidants to the soup. However, the use of ham hocks, which are high in saturated fat and sodium, may be a concern for those watching their intake of these nutrients.
To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Replace the ham hocks with a leaner protein source, such as turkey bacon or smoked turkey breast, to reduce the amount of saturated fat and sodium in the soup
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more kale, spinach, or other leafy greens, to boost the nutrient content and fiber
- Use low-sodium chicken stock or vegetable broth to reduce the overall sodium content of the soup
- Opt for whole grain bread or crackers as an accompaniment to the soup, instead of refined grains, to increase the fiber and nutrient content of the meal
Editor's Opinion: A Comforting and Satisfying Meal
The smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is a delightful blend of hearty flavors and comforting textures. The use of smoked ham hocks infuses the soup with a rich, smoky essence, while the combination of white navy beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs creates a robust and satisfying dish. The process of quick-soaking the beans and blending a portion of the soup adds depth and creaminess. The addition of kale brings a touch of freshness and color. Overall, this recipe offers a wonderful balance of flavors and is perfect for a cozy, nourishing meal.
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Why trust this Smoky White Bean and Ham Soup Recipe:
This smoky white bean and ham soup recipe is a comforting and hearty dish that has been carefully crafted to deliver a rich and flavorful experience. The use of smoked ham hocks infuses the soup with a deep, savory essence, while the addition of fresh thyme and pecorino romano cheese adds layers of aromatic and umami notes. The method of quick-soaking the white navy beans ensures a tender and creamy texture, while the inclusion of kale provides a nutritious boost. Trust in this recipe's attention to detail and balance of flavors for a satisfying dining experience.
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