“Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup”

“Hearty White Bean and Ham Soup”

Ingredients:

• 2 cups dried white beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: diced tomatoes or tomato paste for added flavor
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

Preparation:

1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Cooking the Soup:

1. Add the ham and beans to the pot. Stir to combine.
2. Pour in the broth and add the thyme and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook uncovered, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender, about 1 to 1.5 hours. If using, add diced tomatoes or a spoonful of tomato paste halfway through cooking.
4. Season with salt and pepper, keeping in mind the ham will add saltiness.
5. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

Serving:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.
2. Serve hot, ideally with crusty bread or as shown in your image, with crispy tortilla chips on the side for added texture and flavor.

Conclusion:

This white bean and ham soup is a nourishing, flavorful dish that’s both filling and satisfying. The combination of tender beans, savory ham, and vegetables makes for a balanced meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner, especially on those colder days. Enjoy your meal with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a side of your favorite bread or chips for a complete dining experience.