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There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of homemade soup, especially when the weather turns chilly. Soup offers a perfect blend of warmth, nourishment, and tradition, making it a staple in many homes across the world. Among the vast array of soup recipes, Ham & Bean Soup stands out as a classic dish that not only warms the soul but also fills the belly with its hearty combination of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Hearty Ham & Bean Soup

Warm up with this comforting Ham & Bean Soup, perfect for chilly nights! This nourishing dish combines savory ham, creamy beans, and flavorful vegetables for a hearty meal that evokes memories of family gatherings. Loaded with protein and fiber, it's not just tasty—it's budget-friendly too. Easily modify with your favorite ingredients or proteins for a unique twist. Discover how to make this classic recipe today! #SoupRecipe #ComfortFood #HamAndBeanSoup #HomeCooking #CozyEats #HealthyEating #MealPrep
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Ingredients
  

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 medium onion, diced

2 carrots, diced

2 celery stalks, diced

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 smoked ham hock (or 1 ½ cups diced cooked ham)

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

2 cups water

1 bay leaf

1 teaspoon dried thyme

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 can (15 oz) navy beans, drained and rinsed

1 cup kale or spinach, roughly chopped

Salt and pepper, to taste

Optional: Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions
 

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables soften.

    Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

      Add the smoked ham hock (or diced ham), chicken broth, water, bay leaf, dried thyme, and smoked paprika to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.

        Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes (if using a ham hock) to allow the flavors to meld and the ham to become tender. If using diced ham, simmer for only about 20 minutes.

          Remove the ham hock from the pot. If using a hock, let it cool slightly, shred the meat off the bone, and return the meat to the soup, discarding the bone and any excess fat.

            Stir in the navy beans and chopped kale or spinach. Allow to cook for another 10 minutes until the greens are wilted and everything is heated through.

              Season with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

                Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Enjoy your hearty, comforting ham & bean soup!

                  Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 1 hour | Servings: 6