1 cup Bean & Ham Soup contains 180 calories. This hearty soup is a staple in many households and is perfect for a cozy winter meal. Made with tender beans and savory ham, this soup is not only delicious but also packed with nutrition.

Bean & Ham Soup is a great source of protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins. One serving of this soup can provide 20% of your daily recommended fiber intake and 25% of your daily iron intake. Additionally, beans are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties which can help reduce the risk of heart disease.

In this article, we'll explore everything you need to know about Bean & Ham Soup, from its nutritional facts to cooking instructions, serving suggestions, and regional variations.

Nutritional Facts

Bean & Ham Soup is a nutritious meal option that can provide many health benefits. Here are some of its key nutritional facts: * Calories: 180 * Total Fat: 4g * Sodium: 970mg * Total Carbohydrate: 22g * Dietary Fiber: 5g * Sugars: 2g * Protein: 14g

Health Benefits of Soup

Bean & Ham Soup is not only delicious but also has numerous health benefits. Here are some of the reasons why you should include this hearty soup in your diet: * Provides essential nutrients: As mentioned earlier, this soup is a great source of protein, fiber, iron, and vitamins. These nutrients are essential for maintaining good health. * Helps with weight management: The high fiber content in beans can help you feel full and keep you from overeating. * Lowers cholesterol levels: Beans are known for their cholesterol-lowering properties which can help reduce the risk of heart disease. * Boosts immunity: The protein and vitamins present in this soup can help strengthen your immune system and keep illnesses at bay.

Cooking instructions

Bean & Ham Soup is a simple and easy-to-make meal that can be prepared in under an hour. Here is how you can make it: * In a large pot, sauté chopped onions and garlic until golden brown. * Add chopped ham and stir until heated through. * Add canned beans, broth, potatoes, carrots, and bay leaf. * Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes until the vegetables are tender, and the flavors have melded together. * Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and serve hot.

Ingredients used

Bean & Ham Soup is made with simple and wholesome ingredients that you can easily find in your pantry. Here are the ingredients needed to make this soup: * Canned beans (white, navy or cannellini) * Diced ham * Onions * Garlic * Carrots * Potatoes * Broth (chicken or vegetable) * Bay leaf * Salt and pepper to taste

Serving suggestions

Bean & Ham Soup is a great standalone meal that can be served with crusty bread or crackers. Here are some other serving ideas to make this soup even more delicious: * Top it with grated cheese and a dollop of sour cream * Serve it with cooked rice or pasta * Garnish it with fresh parsley or cilantro * Accompany it with a side salad

Canning and Preservation

Bean & Ham Soup can be canned and preserved for later use. Here are some tips to can and preserve this soup: * Use wide-mouthed Mason jars to store the soup * Make sure the jars are sterilized and free of cracks or chips * Fill the jars with the soup, leaving a one-inch headspace * Wipe the rims clean and secure the lids tightly * Process the jars in a pressure canner for 90 minutes

Regional Variations

Bean & Ham Soup has many regional variations across the world. Here are some of the most popular ones: * French Potage St. Germain: This soup is made with fresh peas and ham and is pureed to give it a creamy texture. * Southern Hoppin' John: This soup is a traditional New Year's Eve dish made with black-eyed peas, ham hocks, and rice. * Italian Pasta e Fagioli: This soup is made with cannellini beans, pasta, and pancetta and is a staple in Italian cuisine. * Brazilian Feijoada: This soup is made with black beans, sausage, and pork and is a popular dish during the Carnival season.

Soup Pairings

Bean & Ham Soup can be paired with many other soups to make a hearty and satisfying meal. Here are some soup pairings that you can try: * Corn Chowder: The creamy and sweet flavor of corn chowder complements the rich and savory taste of Bean & Ham Soup. * Tomato Soup: The tangy and acidic taste of tomato soup balances the earthy and meaty flavor of Bean & Ham Soup. * Butternut Squash Soup: The nutty and sweet taste of butternut squash soup complements the smoky and salty flavor of Bean & Ham Soup. * Minestrone Soup: The zesty and herbaceous taste of minestrone soup works well with the hearty and filling Bean & Ham Soup.

Popular Brands

Bean & Ham Soup is available in many brands that you can find at your local grocery store. Here are some of the most popular brands: * Campbell's Bean with Bacon Soup * Progresso Rich & Hearty Ham & Bean Soup * Amy's Organic Soups Chunky Rustic Italian Vegetable Soup with Sausage and Chickpeas * Baxters Favourites Carrot & Butterbean Soup with Ham

Vegan and Vegetarian Variations

Bean & Ham Soup can be made vegan or vegetarian by replacing ham with plant-based ingredients. Here are some vegan and vegetarian variations of this soup: * Vegan Mushroom and Bean Soup: This soup is made with mushrooms, white beans, and vegetable broth and is a great vegan alternative to Bean & Ham Soup. * Vegetarian Split Pea Soup: This soup is made with split peas, carrots, onions, and vegetable broth and is a flavorful and healthy vegetarian option. * Vegan Chickpea and Potato Soup: This soup is made with chickpeas, potatoes, and canned tomatoes and is a hearty and filling vegan meal.