Hearty Winter Navy Bean and Ham Soup
Warm up this winter with a nourishing bowl of Hearty Winter Navy Bean and Ham Soup. This comforting dish combines the creamy richness of navy beans and the savory essence of ham, complemented by aromatic herbs and spices. Perfect for chilly evenings, it’s not just a meal but a delightful way to share warmth with family and friends. Whether you use leftover ham or salt pork, this wholesome soup is sure to fill your home with inviting aromas and offer a satisfying, hearty experience.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
Dried navy beans or lima beans
1 1/4 cups (Rinsed and drained)
Salt pork or fully cooked ham
4 ounces (Chopped)
Chopped onion
1/4 cup (Chopped)
Dried oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon (Dried)
Salt
1/4 teaspoon (To taste)
Ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon (Ground)
Dried sage
1/4 teaspoon (Dried)
Black pepper
1/4 teaspoon (Freshly ground)
Nonfat milk
2 cups (Liquid)
Butter
2 tablespoons (Melted)
Instructions
1
Rinse and drain the dried navy or lima beans, then place them in a large saucepan and cover with enough water.
2
Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 2 minutes.
3
Remove from heat, cover, and let the beans stand for 1 hour. Alternatively, you can cover the beans with water and let them soak overnight.
4
After soaking, drain the beans and return them to the saucepan. Add 2 1/2 cups of water, along with the chopped salt pork or ham, onion, oregano, salt, ginger, sage, and black pepper.
5
Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours or until the beans are tender. Keep an eye on the pot and add more water if necessary to prevent it from drying out.
6
Once the beans are tender, stir in the milk and butter, mixing until heated through and the butter has melted.
7
Taste the soup and season with additional salt and pepper as needed.
8
If using a ham bone, place it in the pot at the beginning, then remove it after simmering. Scrape and chop any remaining meat from the bone and mix it back into the soup. Discard the bone.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Hearty Winter Navy Bean and Ham Soup?
It is a nourishing, comforting dish combining creamy navy beans, savory ham, and aromatic herbs, perfect for cold weather.
Can I use lima beans instead of navy beans?
Yes, the recipe specifically states you can use either 1 1/4 cups of dried navy beans or dried lima beans.
Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
Yes, you should either boil them for 2 minutes and let them stand for 1 hour, or soak them in water overnight.
How long does the soup need to simmer?
The mixture should simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours until the beans are tender.
What can I use if I do not have salt pork?
You can use 4 ounces of fully cooked, chopped ham as a direct substitute for salt pork.
Can I use a ham bone in this recipe?
Yes, place the ham bone in the pot at the beginning of simmering, then remove it, chop the meat off, and return the meat to the soup.
What spices are used in this bean soup?
The soup is seasoned with dried oregano, ground ginger, dried sage, salt, and black pepper.
Is this recipe dairy-free?
No, this recipe contains nonfat milk and butter. You would need to use plant-based alternatives to make it dairy-free.
What kind of milk should I use?
The recipe calls for 2 cups of nonfat milk, but you can use whole milk or 2% for a richer texture.
How do I know when the beans are finished cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender to the bite, which usually takes between 2 and 2.5 hours of simmering.
What should I do if the liquid levels get too low while simmering?
Keep an eye on the pot and add more water as necessary to prevent the beans from drying out.
When do I add the milk and butter?
Stir in the milk and butter once the beans are tender, mixing until heated through and the butter has melted.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
While these instructions are for a stovetop, you can adapt it by soaking the beans first and then cooking on low for 6-8 hours.
Is this soup gluten-free?
The core ingredients are gluten-free, but always check the labels on your ham and spices to ensure no cross-contamination.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
Based on the ingredient quantities, this recipe typically serves approximately 4 to 6 people.
Can I freeze navy bean and ham soup?
Yes, you can freeze it, though the milk may cause slight separation upon thawing; simply stir well while reheating.
What is the best way to reheat leftovers?
Reheat the soup in a saucepan over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.
Can I add extra vegetables to this soup?
Yes, carrots and celery are excellent additions that complement the chopped onion and savory ham.
What side dishes go well with this soup?
It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple garden salad.
Why does the recipe include ground ginger?
Ginger adds a subtle warmth to the broth and can help with the digestion of the beans.
Is the salt pork necessary for the flavor?
It adds a traditional smoky saltiness, but using fully cooked ham or even smoked turkey can provide a similar flavor profile.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
Yes, but you would significantly reduce the simmering time and omit the soaking process.
How should I prepare the ham bone?
Ensure the bone is clean, simmer it with the beans, and then scrape and chop any remaining meat back into the soup.
Can I use margarine instead of butter?
Yes, margarine can be used, though butter is recommended for the best flavor and richness.
How long can I store this in the refrigerator?
Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I double this recipe for a large group?
Yes, simply double all ingredient amounts and ensure you use a sufficiently large stockpot.
Why is it important to rinse the dried beans?
Rinsing removes any field dust, dirt, or small pebbles that might be mixed in with the dried beans.
What role does oregano play in this recipe?
Dried oregano provides an earthy, floral note that balances the heavy, savory flavors of the ham and beans.
Is this a healthy meal option?
Yes, it is a wholesome dish high in protein and fiber from the beans, especially when using lean ham and nonfat milk.
Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?
Yes, but use three times the amount of fresh herbs compared to the dried measurements called for in the recipe.