Ham and bean soup

Ham and bean soup is a hearty, comforting classic—simple ingredients, big flavor. Here’s an easy, reliable version.

Classic Ham & Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried white beans (navy or great northern)
• 1 meaty ham bone or 2–3 cups diced ham
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme (optional)
• 6–8 cups water or low-sodium broth
• Black pepper (salt at the end)

Instructions

1. Soak beans (recommended): Cover with water and soak overnight, then drain.
   Quick soak option: Boil beans 2 minutes, cover, rest 1 hour, drain.
2. In a large pot, add beans, ham bone/ham, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, and liquid.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
4. Simmer 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
5. Remove ham bone, shred any meat, and return it to the pot.
6. Season with pepper and salt only if needed.
7. Remove bay leaf and serve.

Tips

• For thicker soup: mash a cup of beans and stir back in.
• Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of smoked paprika at the end for extra depth.
• Great with cornbread or crusty bread.

Want a slow cooker or Instant Pot version? Or using leftover holiday ham?