Delicious and Hearty Recipe for Ham and Bean Soup in a Crock Pot: A Comforting Meal for Any Occasion
Guide or Summary：Why Choose Ham and Bean Soup?Ingredients You’ll NeedStep-by-Step InstructionsWhy Use a Crock Pot?Final ThoughtsIf you're looking for a warm……
Guide or Summary：
- Why Choose Ham and Bean Soup?
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Why Use a Crock Pot?
- Final Thoughts
If you're looking for a warm and comforting dish that is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor, look no further than this delectable recipe for ham and bean soup in a crock pot. This hearty soup is perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or meal prepping for the week ahead. With its rich, savory taste and wholesome ingredients, it's sure to become a favorite in your household.
Why Choose Ham and Bean Soup?
Ham and bean soup is a classic dish that combines the savory goodness of ham with the creamy texture of beans. It’s a wonderful way to use leftover ham, making it an economical choice for families. The combination of protein from the ham and fiber from the beans creates a filling meal that will keep you satisfied. Plus, the addition of vegetables and herbs adds depth to the flavor, making each spoonful a delightful experience.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this scrumptious recipe for ham and bean soup in a crock pot, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups of diced ham (preferably leftover)
- 1 cup of dried white beans (such as navy or great northern beans), soaked overnight
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cups of chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (with juice)
- 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. **Prepare the Beans**: If you haven’t done so already, soak the dried beans in water overnight. This helps soften them and reduces cooking time.
2. **Layer the Ingredients**: In your crock pot, start by adding the soaked beans, diced ham, chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and chopped celery.
3. **Add the Liquids**: Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes (with their juice). This broth will be the base of your soup, providing essential flavor.
4. **Season It Up**: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, add the bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything gently to combine.
5. **Cook**: Cover the crock pot and set it to low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours. The longer you let it cook, the more the flavors will meld together.
6. **Serve**: Once done, remove the bay leaf and taste the soup. Adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Why Use a Crock Pot?
Using a crock pot for this recipe allows the flavors to develop slowly, resulting in a rich and satisfying soup. The low and slow cooking method ensures that the beans become tender without falling apart, while the ham infuses the broth with its savory essence. Plus, it’s incredibly convenient—just set it and forget it!
Final Thoughts
This recipe for ham and bean soup in a crock pot is not only easy to make, but it also offers a delicious, nourishing meal that the whole family will love. It's perfect for using up leftover ham and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or spices. Whether you're enjoying it on a cold winter night or serving it at a casual family gathering, this soup is sure to warm your heart and satisfy your hunger. So grab your crock pot and start cooking—your taste buds will thank you!