If you're looking for a delicious and hearty dish to enjoy, look no further than this smoked ham and beans recipe. Not only is it packed with flavor, but it's also a great way to use up any leftover ham you may have. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is sure to satisfy.
What Seasoning to Put in Ham and Beans
When it comes to seasoning your ham and beans, there are a few key ingredients that will add depth and flavor to the dish. In this recipe, we use a combination of salt, fresh garlic, mustard powder, bay leaves, and ground white pepper. These seasonings work together to enhance the natural smokiness of the ham and bring out the flavors of the beans.
How to Make Ham and Bean Soup
Making this ham and bean soup is a breeze. Start by gathering your ingredients, which include water, dry great northern beans (or any white bean of your choice), carrots, onion, celery, ham hock, chopped ham, and the seasonings mentioned above.
Begin by rinsing and sorting the beans to remove any debris. Then, in a large pot, combine the beans, water, ham hock, and seasonings. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
While the beans are cooking, prepare the vegetables by chopping the carrots, onion, and celery. Add them to the pot after the beans have simmered for about an hour. This will ensure that the vegetables are cooked to perfection and add a nice texture to the soup.
Once the beans and vegetables are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot and discard any excess fat or bone. Then, stir in the chopped ham and let it simmer for another 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
How to Thicken Ham and Bean Soup
If you prefer a thicker soup, there are a few ways to achieve that consistency. One option is to create a cornstarch slurry by mixing cornstarch with a small amount of cold water. Add the slurry to the soup and stir until it thickens. Another option is to use mashed potatoes. Simply peel and boil a few potatoes, then mash them and add them to the soup. The starch in the potatoes will thicken the soup naturally.
How to Store and Freeze Ham and Bean Soup
If you have any leftovers, store the ham and bean soup in a shallow, airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, simply microwave it or heat it on the stove. The flavors may even intensify after a day or two!
If you want to freeze the soup for later use, ladle it into zip-top bags, squeeze out the excess air, and seal the bags tightly. Wrap the bags in foil and freeze them flat for up to three months. This way, you can enjoy a comforting bowl of ham and bean soup whenever you're in the mood.
Allrecipes Community Tips and Praise
This smoked ham and beans recipe has received rave reviews from the Allrecipes community. Many users have added their own twist to the recipe, such as adding celery and potatoes to make the soup even heartier. Others have praised the soup's delicious flavor and how well it freezes for later use.
Great basic recipe, says Dave Cartee. i have made it a few times. i also take a couple scoops and purée it in a blender and put it back in to thicken it up a little. i make a big [batch] and freeze some for later.
I added celery and yukon gold potatoes to help this delicious soup go further with feeding more, says Ne_Tia200 love love love it!!!
Wonderful soup, raves Linda. definitely not basic. i made it two weeks ago for dinner with grilled cheese sandwiches and ate it for lunch for the next five days! it's that good! i am making it again right now.
In conclusion, this smoked ham and beans recipe is a fantastic option for a flavorful and filling meal. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, you can enjoy a delicious bowl of soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. Whether you're cooking for a crowd or just want a comforting meal for yourself, this recipe is a winner. Try it today and see for yourself!
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