"Ultimate Comfort Food: Hearty Ham and 15 Bean Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights"

#### Ham and 15 Bean Soup RecipeWhen it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. The ham and 15 bean soup r……

#### Ham and 15 Bean Soup Recipe

When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compare to a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. The ham and 15 bean soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that not only warms the body but also nourishes the soul. This recipe is perfect for those looking to create a hearty meal that is both satisfying and easy to prepare.

#### Ingredients for Ham and 15 Bean Soup

To start, gather your ingredients. You will need a 15-bean mix, which can typically be found in grocery stores or health food stores. This mix usually includes a variety of beans such as navy beans, kidney beans, black beans, and pinto beans. The variety of beans not only adds different textures but also a rich source of protein and fiber.

In addition to the beans, you will need:

- 1 cup of diced ham (smoked or leftover)

- 1 large onion, chopped

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2 carrots, diced

- 2 celery stalks, diced

- 1 can of diced tomatoes (with juice)

- 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

- 1 teaspoon of thyme

- 1 teaspoon of bay leaf

- Salt and pepper to taste

- Optional: a splash of hot sauce for some heat

#### Preparation Steps

1. **Soak the Beans**: The first step in making your ham and 15 bean soup recipe is to soak the beans overnight in water. This helps to soften them and reduce cooking time. If you're short on time, you can use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, then letting them sit for an hour.

2. **Sauté Vegetables**: In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

3. **Add Ham and Beans**: Stir in the diced ham and the soaked beans. Mix well to combine all the ingredients.

4. **Add Liquids and Seasoning**: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, and add the can of diced tomatoes along with their juice. Add the thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. **Simmer**: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add more broth or water if needed.

6. **Taste and Adjust**: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as necessary. If you like a bit of heat, add a splash of hot sauce.

7. **Serve**: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro if desired. This ham and 15 bean soup recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a side salad.

#### Why This Recipe is a Must-Try

The ham and 15 bean soup recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience. The combination of savory ham and a variety of beans creates a rich, hearty flavor that is hard to resist. It’s also a fantastic way to use up leftover ham from holiday meals. Plus, it’s a one-pot dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy with family and friends.

This soup is also incredibly versatile. Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or corn, or even throw in some greens like spinach for added nutrition. You can also make it in a slow cooker or Instant Pot for convenience.

In summary, the ham and 15 bean soup recipe is a delicious, easy-to-make dish that embodies comfort and warmth. Perfect for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or cozy gatherings, this soup will surely become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy the hearty goodness and the delightful aroma that fills your home as it simmers away!