Embark on a journey of flavor with this hearty navy bean soup, a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. This recipe brings together savory ham, tender navy beans, and a fragrant blend of herbs and vegetables, transforming simple ingredients into a memorable meal.
While it requires some patience to allow all the ingredients to meld, the payoff is a nourishing, robust soup that fills both belly and soul. In just 15 minutes of prep time, this recipe lets you set it to simmer and develop rich flavors while you go about your day.
Ingredients:
- 6 cups of water (for soaking beans)
- 1 lb dried navy beans (16 oz), rinsed
- 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
- ½ lb cooked ham, cubed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 tsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 chicken bouillon cube
- 1 tbsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 bay leaf
- 3 cups water (additional)
- 1 tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Begin by rinsing the dried navy beans under cool water, ensuring they’re clean and ready to cook. In a large stockpot, add the beans, 6 cups of water, and set them aside to soak while you prepare the other ingredients.
- Combine Ingredients in the Stockpot:
In the stockpot with the soaked beans, add the tomatoes, cubed ham, chopped onion, and celery. Stir in the Worcestershire sauce, minced garlic, chicken bouillon cube, parsley, garlic powder, and the bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally to distribute the flavors evenly. - Simmer for Depth of Flavor:
Once the pot reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let the soup simmer for 2 hours. This extended simmering time allows the flavors to meld, and the beans soften beautifully. The soup will gradually thicken as it cooks, creating a rich and savory broth infused with the smokiness of ham and the fresh notes of celery and garlic. - Add Final Ingredients:
After 2 hours, add the additional 3 cups of water, salt, and pepper to the stockpot. Stir well to incorporate, adjusting seasonings to taste. Cover and continue to simmer for another 2 hours on low heat, allowing the beans to soak up even more of the delicious flavors from the broth. - Finish and Serve:
Before serving, remove the bay leaf, as it has done its job of infusing an aromatic touch. Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot, either on its own or with a crusty bread to soak up the savory broth.
Nutritional Highlights and Health Benefits
Each serving of this navy bean soup offers around 236 calories, making it a light yet filling option for a meal. The beans provide a strong dose of protein and fiber, with approximately 16 grams of protein and 13 grams of fiber per serving. Rich in potassium, iron, calcium, and vitamin C, this soup is not only hearty but also nutritionally rewarding, supporting digestion, muscle function, and immune health. It’s an ideal meal for those aiming to eat healthily without sacrificing flavor.
Conclusion :
Whether you’re serving up a warm meal for loved ones or enjoying a cozy night in, this navy bean soup is a bowl of comfort that embodies the heart of home cooking. The blend of navy beans and ham, combined with herbs and veggies, creates a deeply satisfying flavor that invites you to savor each bite.
Serve it with a rustic loaf, and let the comforting flavors and fragrant aromas take you to a place of relaxation and warmth. This navy bean soup is more than a recipe—it’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest ingredients create the most memorable meals.
Enjoy!
