Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup invites you to enjoy a warm and hearty meal. This comforting dish fills your kitchen with inviting aromas while it slowly cooks, making it perfect for busy days. You can set up this simple recipe and let your crockpot work its magic, offering you a delightful meal that feels like home.
Why We Love This Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup stands out as a beloved favorite for many reasons. First, the combination of tender beans and rich ham creates a satisfying flavor that warms you from the inside out. As the ingredients simmer together, their flavors meld beautifully, resulting in a delicious and hearty soup that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s great for meal prepping, as it keeps well and even tastes better the next day. You can also adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, allowing for a personal touch in every bowl. The ease of making it in a crockpot means you have more time to spend with family or attend to other tasks while still enjoying a nutritious meal at the end of the day.
Ingredients for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
- 1 pound dried beans (navy or great northern work well)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups diced ham
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
Start by rinsing the dried beans under cold water. Remove any debris or damaged beans. Soak them overnight or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour.
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the crockpot.
Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
Stir in the diced ham, then pour in the broth. Ensure the ingredients are well combined.
Add the bay leaves and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
Before serving, remove the bay leaves. You can adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
How to Serve Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Serving Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup can elevate your meal experience. Ladle the warm soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of beans and ham for flavor. For added texture, consider serving the soup with crusty bread or fluffy rolls. This combination allows for dipping, which many find delightful. On the side, a fresh green salad adds a nice contrast and additional nutrition, balancing the warmth of the soup. If you want to impress your guests, garnish each bowl with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of black pepper for added visual appeal and a burst of fresh flavor. You can also offer a selection of toppings, such as grated cheese, sour cream, or chopped green onions, allowing everyone to personalize their bowl. This creates a cozy and inviting atmosphere around the meal.
Expert Tips for Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
To achieve the best possible flavor in your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, consider a few expert tips. First, using leftover ham not only saves time but also enhances the flavor. If you have a ham bone, toss it into the pot for added richness. Second, sautéing onions, carrots, celery, and garlic in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot can heighten their natural sweetness and deepen the overall flavor profile. Remember to soak your beans adequately; this not only reduces cooking time but also helps prevent the beans from becoming mushy. Additionally, feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices, such as smoked paprika or rosemary, to bring unique flavors to your soup. Lastly, don’t hesitate to adjust the liquid; if you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the broth slightly. Taste and tweak the seasonings towards the end of cooking to get everything just right.
How to Store Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Storing leftover Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup is simple. Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before transferring it to airtight containers. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. For longer storage, consider placing the soup in freezer-safe containers or bags for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the microwave to speed up the thawing process. Reheat the soup on the stove or in the microwave until it’s hot throughout. You can also add a splash of water or broth if it has thickened during storage, helping restore its original consistency.
Variations of Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup offers plenty of opportunities for variation. You can change the type of beans you use based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Chickpeas, lentils, or even black beans can provide different textures and flavors. For a spicy kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce. If you like a smokier flavor, smoked sausage can be a delicious substitute for ham. You can also include vegetables based on seasonal availability, such as sweet potatoes or greens. Experimenting with additional spices can take your soup to the next level; a touch of cumin or chili powder can add depth. Finally, if you enjoy a creamy variation, consider stirring in a bit of cream or milk just before serving to create a rich and velvety texture.
FAQ about Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
When making your Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup, you might have some questions. One common inquiry is how to ensure the beans cook properly. Soaking them the night before or using the quick-soak method can help ensure they reach the perfect tenderness in your soup. Another question revolves around possible substitutions for ham. You can use turkey, chicken, or even a vegetarian alternative like mushrooms to add flavor without meat. Additionally, if you have leftovers, you might wonder how long they will keep. Properly stored, the soup can last in the fridge for several days or in the freezer for months. Finally, many people ask if they can add more vegetables. Absolutely! Adding vegetables can enhance the soup’s flavor and nutritional value; just keep an eye on the cooking times to make sure everything cooks evenly.
Crockpot Ham and Bean Soup
Ingredients
Beans and Vegetables
- 1 pound dried beans (navy or great northern) Soaked overnight or quick-soaked
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Protein
- 2 cups diced ham Leftover ham works well
Liquids and Seasonings
- 6 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 2 each bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- to taste salt and pepper
Optional Garnish
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped For garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried beans under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans. Soak them overnight or use the quick-soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for an hour.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the crockpot.
- Add the chopped onion, sliced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic to the crockpot.
- Stir in the diced ham, then pour in the broth, ensuring the ingredients are well combined.
- Add the bay leaves and dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cooking
- Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours or on high for 4 to 6 hours, until the beans are tender and the flavors are well combined.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaves and adjust seasoning if necessary.
Serving
- Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors.
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