There’s nothing quite like a hearty bowl of ham and bean soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This slow cooker recipe is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor. The ham bone adds a rich, smoky taste, while the white beans provide a creamy texture that makes this dish incredibly satisfying.
If you don’t usually keep a ham bone on hand, you might need to visit your local butcher or supermarket’s meat section. The dried white beans are typically found in the dry goods aisle, but make sure to check the packaging to ensure they are gluten-free. Bay leaves and dried thyme are common spices, but if you don’t have them, they can be easily found in the spice aisle.
Ingredients For Slow Cooker Ham And Bean Soup Recipe
Dried white beans: These beans are the base of the soup, providing a creamy texture and absorbing the flavors of the other ingredients.
Ham bone: Adds a rich, smoky flavor to the soup. Make sure it has some meat on it for added texture and taste.
Onion: Adds a sweet and savory depth to the soup.
Carrots: Provide a subtle sweetness and a bit of color to the dish.
Celery: Adds a slight bitterness and crunch, balancing the flavors.
Garlic: Enhances the overall flavor with its pungent and aromatic qualities.
Bay leaf: Adds a subtle, earthy flavor that complements the other ingredients.
Dried thyme: Provides a hint of herbal flavor, enhancing the soup’s complexity.
Water: The base liquid that helps cook the beans and melds all the flavors together.
Technique Tip for This Recipe
For an extra depth of flavor, consider sautéing the onion, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker. This step caramelizes the vegetables, enhancing their natural sweetness and adding a rich, savory note to your ham and bean soup.
Suggested Side Dishes
Roasted Brussels Sprouts with Balsamic Glaze: Imagine the crunch of perfectly roasted Brussels sprouts, their edges caramelized to a golden brown. Drizzle them with a balsamic glaze that adds a tangy sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the hearty soup.
Garlic Parmesan Mashed Potatoes: Envision a creamy mound of mashed potatoes, infused with the rich flavors of garlic and Parmesan cheese. This side dish offers a silky texture and a savory taste that pairs beautifully with the Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup.
Apple Walnut Salad with Honey Dijon Dressing: Picture a crisp salad featuring fresh apples, crunchy walnuts, and a honey Dijon dressing. The sweetness of the apples and the nutty flavor of the walnuts provide a refreshing counterpoint to the richness of the soup.
Cheddar and Chive Biscuits: Visualize fluffy biscuits bursting with the sharpness of cheddar cheese and the subtle onion-like flavor of chives. These biscuits are perfect for dipping into the savory broth of the soup.
Cranberry Orange Relish: Imagine a zesty relish made from tart cranberries and sweet oranges. This vibrant side dish adds a burst of color and a citrusy zing that complements the earthy flavors of the Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup.
Alternative Ingredients
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dried white beans – Substitute with canned white beans: Canned beans are pre-cooked and can save time. Make sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the slow cooker.
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ham bone with some meat – Substitute with smoked turkey leg: Smoked turkey leg provides a similar smoky flavor and meaty texture, making it a great alternative for those who do not consume pork.
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large onion – Substitute with leek: Leeks offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor compared to onions and can add a different dimension to the soup.
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carrots – Substitute with parsnips: Parsnips have a sweet, nutty flavor that can complement the other ingredients in the soup.
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celery stalks – Substitute with fennel: Fennel has a slightly sweet, licorice-like flavor that can add an interesting twist to the soup.
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garlic – Substitute with shallots: Shallots provide a milder, more delicate flavor compared to garlic, which can be a nice variation.
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bay leaf – Substitute with thyme: Thyme can provide a similar earthy flavor and is a versatile herb that pairs well with the other ingredients.
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dried thyme – Substitute with dried oregano: Dried oregano has a robust, slightly peppery flavor that can complement the other herbs and ingredients in the soup.
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water – Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds more depth and richness to the soup compared to plain water.
Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Dish
Tuscan White Bean Soup: Transport yourself to the heart of Italy with this hearty and flavorful soup. Packed with white beans, kale, and Italian sausage, it’s a comforting bowl of goodness perfect for any night of the week.
Chicken and White Bean Chili: Spice up your dinner routine with this zesty and satisfying chili. Combining tender chicken, creamy white beans, and a medley of spices, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Vegetable and Bean Stew: Dive into a bowl of wholesome goodness with this nutrient-packed stew. Featuring a colorful array of vegetables, white beans, and a rich tomato broth, it’s a meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Ham and Lentil Soup: Enjoy a twist on the classic with this hearty soup. Combining savory ham, protein-rich lentils, and a blend of aromatic vegetables, it’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly days.
Smoky Black Bean Soup: Warm up with a bowl of this smoky and flavorful soup. Featuring black beans, smoked paprika, and a hint of lime, it’s a deliciously unique take on traditional bean soups.
How To Store / Freeze This Recipe
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Allow the soup to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain the texture and flavor of the vegetables and ham.
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Transfer the soup to airtight containers. For easy portioning, use individual serving-sized containers.
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Label the containers with the date. This ensures you keep track of freshness and consume the soup within a safe timeframe.
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Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will meld together beautifully, making it even tastier the next day.
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For longer storage, freeze the soup. Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Lay the bags flat in the freezer for efficient storage.
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When ready to enjoy, thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight. This gradual thawing helps retain the texture and flavor.
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Reheat the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, use the microwave, heating in short intervals and stirring in between to ensure even heating.
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If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.
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Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper before serving. The flavors might need a little boost after being stored.
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Enjoy your slow cooker ham and bean soup with a side of gluten-free bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
How To Reheat Leftovers
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Stovetop Method: Pour the leftover soup into a pot and heat over medium heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating. Once it starts to simmer, reduce the heat to low and let it warm through for about 10-15 minutes. Add a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much.
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Microwave Method: Transfer a portion of the soup into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plate to prevent splatters. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through. If the soup isn’t hot enough, continue heating in 1-minute intervals until it reaches the desired temperature.
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Slow Cooker Method: If you have the time, you can reheat the soup in the slow cooker. Pour the soup back into the slow cooker and set it to low. Allow it to heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is great for maintaining the soup‘s texture and flavor.
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Oven Method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Pour the soup into an oven-safe dish and cover with foil. Heat for about 20-30 minutes, or until the soup is hot throughout. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
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Double Boiler Method: For a gentle reheating method, use a double boiler. Fill the bottom pot with water and bring it to a simmer. Place the soup in the top pot and stir occasionally. This method prevents the soup from scorching and helps retain its original texture.
Best Tools for This Recipe
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Slow cooker: This is the main appliance used to cook the soup slowly over a long period, ensuring the flavors meld together perfectly.
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Colander: Used to rinse and sort the dried beans before adding them to the slow cooker.
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Cutting board: Provides a safe and sturdy surface for chopping the vegetables.
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Chef’s knife: Essential for chopping the onion, carrots, celery, and mincing the garlic.
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Measuring spoons: Used to measure out the thyme and any other seasonings you might want to add.
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Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients together in the slow cooker.
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Tongs: Useful for removing the ham bone from the soup once it’s cooked.
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Fork: Used to shred the meat from the ham bone before returning it to the soup.
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Ladle: Perfect for serving the soup once it’s ready.
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Mixing bowl: Handy for holding the shredded ham before it’s added back to the soup.
How to Save Time on This Recipe
Pre-soak the beans: Soak the dried white beans overnight to reduce cooking time.
Chop vegetables in advance: Prepare and chop onion, carrots, and celery the night before.
Use pre-minced garlic: Save time by using store-bought minced garlic.
Instant pot option: Use an Instant Pot to cut down cooking time significantly.
Store-bought broth: Substitute water with store-bought broth for added flavor and quicker prep.
Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup Recipe
This recipe is gluten free.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb dried white beans
- 1 ham bone with some meat
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 8 cups water
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Rinse and sort beans.
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Add beans, ham bone, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and water to slow cooker.
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Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
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Remove ham bone, shred meat, and return to soup.
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Season with salt and pepper.
Nutritional Value
Calories: 250kcal | Carbohydrates: 35g | Protein: 15g | Fat: 5g | Saturated Fat: 1.5g | Cholesterol: 20mg | Sodium: 600mg | Potassium: 600mg | Fiber: 10g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 300IU | Vitamin C: 5mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 3mg
Suggested Appetizers and Desserts
Stuffed Mushrooms: Imagine tender mushroom caps filled with a savory mixture of cream cheese, herbs, and breadcrumbs. These delightful bites are then baked to golden perfection, offering a creamy and crunchy texture in every mouthful. The herb-infused filling complements the earthy flavor of the mushrooms, making it an irresistible starter for any meal.
Caprese Skewers: Visualize vibrant cherry tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, and creamy mozzarella balls threaded onto skewers. Drizzled with a rich balsamic glaze, these skewers offer a burst of freshness and flavor. The combination of juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and smooth mozzarella creates a harmonious balance, making it a perfect appetizer to tantalize your taste buds.
Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse that melts in your mouth. This decadent treat combines velvety dark chocolate with a hint of espresso to enhance its deep flavors. Top it with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder for an elegant finish. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a sophisticated gathering, this dessert will leave your guests craving more.
Lemon Tart: Brighten up your meal with a zesty lemon tart. The crisp, buttery pastry crust is filled with a tangy lemon curd that strikes the perfect balance between sweet and tart. Garnish with a dusting of powdered sugar and a few fresh berries for a pop of color. This refreshing dessert is ideal for spring and summer occasions, offering a burst of citrusy goodness in every bite.
FAQ:
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Since canned beans are already cooked, add them during the last hour of cooking to avoid them becoming too mushy.
What can I use if I don’t have a ham bone?
If you don’t have a ham bone, you can use ham hocks or even diced ham. The bone adds a lot of flavor, but it’s not essential.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other veggies like potatoes, bell peppers, or even spinach. Just keep in mind that some vegetables might cook faster than others, so adjust the timing accordingly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just make sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Do I need to soak the dried beans before cooking?
Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest, but it’s not strictly necessary. If you forget to soak them, just rinse and sort them before adding to the slow cooker.
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