Chunky Ham and Bean Soup: A Budget-Friendly and Flavorful Recipe from Budget Bytes
Hi there, readers!
Welcome to our comprehensive guide to making a hearty and budget-friendly Chunky Ham and Bean Soup, inspired by the popular recipe from Budget Bytes. This comforting soup is not only packed with flavor but also easy on your wallet. So, grab your cooking gear and let’s dive in!
Choosing the Right Ingredients
Selecting Your Ham
The choice of ham will significantly impact the flavor of your soup. Look for a ham that is not too salty, such as an uncured ham or a low-sodium variety. You can also use leftover ham from a previous meal or holiday dinner.
Bean Bonanza
For this soup, you’ll need dried beans. Choose from a variety like pinto beans, navy beans, or great northern beans. These beans add protein, fiber, and a nutty flavor to the soup. Remember to soak them overnight before cooking.
Preparing Your Beans and Ham
Soaking and Simmering the Beans
Start by sorting and rinsing your beans. Place them in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with plenty of water. Bring them to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for about 2 hours, or until tender.
Adding Ham Flavor
While the beans are simmering, remove the skin from the ham and cut it into 1-inch cubes. In a skillet, brown the ham cubes over medium heat until they are golden. If using leftover ham, skip this step and add it directly to the soup.
Assembling Your Chunky Soup
Marrying Flavors
Once the beans are tender, add them along with their cooking liquid to a large pot. Stir in the browned ham, chopped onion, celery, carrots, and diced tomatoes. Season the soup with your favorite herbs and spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or black pepper.
Simmering for Flavor
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for at least 30 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender. Taste the soup and adjust seasonings as needed.
Adding the Final Touch
For a touch of creaminess, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half. Alternatively, you can mash some of the beans to create a thicker consistency.
Soup Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dried beans | 1 pound |
| Ham (cubed) | 1 pound |
| Onion (chopped) | 1 large |
| Celery (chopped) | 2 stalks |
| Carrots (chopped) | 2 large |
| Diced tomatoes (14.5 oz can) | 1 |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Herbs and spices (thyme, rosemary, black pepper) | To taste |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half (optional) | 1 cup |
Serving and Storing
Savoring the Soup
Serve your Chunky Ham and Bean Soup hot with a side of crusty bread or crackers for dipping. Top it with fresh parsley or shredded cheddar cheese for an extra layer of flavor.
Preserving Your Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. When ready to serve, thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator and reheat it over medium heat.
Conclusion
And there you have it, readers! Our comprehensive guide to creating a delicious and budget-friendly Chunky Ham and Bean Soup, inspired by Budget Bytes. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal on a cold night or a nutritious and affordable option, this soup has you covered.
To explore more culinary adventures, be sure to check out our other articles on budget-friendly cooking, meal planning, and kitchen tips. Happy eating!
FAQ about Chunky Ham and Bean Soup Budget Bytes
What is Ham and Bean Soup?
Ham and bean soup is a hearty, savory soup made with ham, beans, and vegetables. It is a popular dish in many cultures and can be made with a variety of ingredients.
What do I need to make Chunky Ham and Bean Soup?
To make Chunky Ham and Bean Soup, you will need:
- 1 pound dried Great Northern beans
- 1 pound ham bone or ham hock
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 4 cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
How do I make Chunky Ham and Bean Soup?
To make Chunky Ham and Bean Soup, follow these steps:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the beans, ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 90 minutes, or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham bone from the soup and discard.
- Serve the soup hot with crusty bread or crackers.
Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans in this soup. If you do, you will need to rinse the beans before adding them to the soup.
Can I use a different type of bean?
Yes, you can use any type of bean you like in this soup. Some popular choices include kidney beans, pinto beans, and black beans.
How can I make the soup thicker?
To make the soup thicker, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher. You can also add a cornstarch slurry to the soup. To make a cornstarch slurry, combine 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Bring the soup to a boil, then add the cornstarch slurry and stir until the soup has thickened.
How can I make the soup more flavorful?
To make the soup more flavorful, you can add additional spices to the soup, such as cumin, chili powder, or paprika. You can also add a splash of red wine or sherry to the soup.
How do I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The soup can also be frozen for up to 3 months.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. To do so, combine all of the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours.
