Flavorful Leftover Ham and Bean Soup

When it comes to using up those post-holiday leftovers, our “Flavorful Leftover Ham and Bean Soup” is a must-try. A delicious and straightforward recipe that transforms that bone-in-ham steak from your Easter or Christmas feast into a hearty, comforting soup. With a medley of vegetables, spices, and the rich, savory goodness of ham, this soup is perfect for warming up on chilly evenings. Plus, it’s quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 tablespoon canola or vegetable oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 celery ribs, diced
• 3 carrots, peeled and chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 2 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
• 1/8 teaspoon crushed red pepper
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or chicken stock
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 3 cans (15.5 ounces each) white beans, rinsed and drained
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 1/4 – 1 1/2 lb bone-in ham steak

Instructions:

1. In a Dutch oven or a heavy stockpot, heat the canola or vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion, diced celery, and chopped carrots. Cook until the onion and celery have softened, which should take around 6-7 minutes.
2. Reduce the heat to low and add the minced garlic, fresh thyme leaves, ground cumin, ground white pepper, and crushed red pepper. Cook for 1 minute while stirring constantly.
3. Stir in the low-sodium chicken broth, brown sugar, white beans, and bay leaves. Slice the ham steak into sections that will fit in the pot, including the ham bone. Let everything simmer for 20-30 minutes.
4. Remove the ham from the pot and cut it into bite-size pieces. Discard any fat, skin, the ham bone, and bay leaves. Return the ham pieces to the pot and let them simmer for an additional 5 minutes. If desired, season to taste with additional black pepper, crushed red pepper, or thyme.
5. For a creamier texture, and if you prefer a thicker soup, puree a small portion of the soup using a handheld immersion blender or a stand blender. Remember to remove the inner cap when blending hot liquids.

Conclusion:

Our “Flavorful Leftover Ham and Bean Soup” is not only a fantastic way to use up holiday ham but also a delightful, quick-to-make dish for any occasion. With its blend of aromatic spices and hearty ingredients, this soup promises warmth and comfort with every spoonful. Enjoy this flavorful creation that’s perfect for cold evenings and busy schedules alike. Plus, the convenience of reheating leftovers makes it a winner in the realm of satisfying, homemade soups.

SOURCE OF THE PICTURE : small town woman