Looking for a delicious and hearty soup that is easy to make? Look no further than our 100 G Bean and Ham Soup recipe! At just 91 calories per serving, this soup is perfect for those looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal option.

Packed with protein and fiber, this soup is not only tasty but also nutritious. The beans provide the body with essential nutrients, while the ham adds a savory richness to the dish.

In this article, we'll explore all you need to know about making and enjoying this classic soup dish.

Easy Bean and Ham Soup Recipe

Our easy Bean and Ham Soup recipe is simple to follow and can be made in just a few steps. Here's what you'll need:

• 1 lb. dried navy beans
• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

To make the soup, start by soaking the beans overnight. In the morning, drain and rinse the beans, then add them to a large pot with the ham hock or diced ham, onion, garlic, water or broth, bay leaf, and thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until beans are tender. Remove the ham hock (if using) and bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients for Bean and Ham Soup

To make a delicious Bean and Ham Soup, you'll need the following ingredients:

• 1 lb. dried navy beans
• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp. dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

These ingredients are easy to find and affordable, making this soup a great option for those on a budget.

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make the Soup

Here's a step-by-step guide to making our delicious Bean and Ham Soup:

1. Soak the beans overnight.
2. Drain and rinse the beans and add them to a large pot with ham hock or diced ham, onion, garlic, water or broth, bay leaf, and thyme.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 1 1/2 to 2 hours or until beans are tender.
4. Remove the ham hock (if using) and bay leaf, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!

These instructions are easy to follow and are perfect for beginners.

Nutritional Benefits of Bean and Ham Soup

Bean and Ham Soup is not only a tasty meal option but also a nutritious one. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of this dish:

• High in protein
• High in fiber
• Low in calories
• Low in fat
• Contains essential minerals like iron, magnesium, and potassium

These nutritional benefits make Bean and Ham Soup a great option for those looking to maintain a healthy and balanced diet.

How to Store Leftover Soup

If you have any leftover Bean and Ham Soup, it can be stored in the fridge or freezer for later use.

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• For longer storage, place the soup in a freezer-safe container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat, simply thaw the soup (if frozen) and heat on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

These storage tips will ensure that your soup stays fresh and delicious for longer.

Ways to Serve Bean and Ham Soup

Bean and Ham Soup can be served in a variety of ways, making it a versatile dish that can be enjoyed by all. Here are some serving suggestions:

• As a main course with a slice of bread or crackers on the side.
• As a side dish with grilled or roasted meats.
• Topped with shredded cheese or sour cream for added creaminess.
• With a drizzle of olive oil and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for added flavor.

These serving suggestions will help you elevate your Bean and Ham Soup and make it a hit with friends and family.

Variations of Bean and Ham Soup

Bean and Ham Soup is a classic dish that can be customized to your liking. Here are some variations of this dish that you can try:

• Add vegetables like carrots, celery, and potatoes for added nutrition.
• Replace the navy beans with other beans like black, kidney, or cannellini beans.
• Try using bacon or sausage instead of ham for a different flavor profile.

These variations will help you create a unique and tasty Bean and Ham Soup that is perfect for your taste.

Tips for Making Perfect Bean and Ham Soup

To ensure that your Bean and Ham Soup turns out perfectly every time, here are some tips to keep in mind:

• Soak the beans overnight to ensure a creamy texture.
• Use a ham hock for added flavor or diced ham for convenience.
• Be sure to season with salt and pepper to taste.
• Simmer the soup on low heat for 1 1/2 to 2 hours for the best results.

These tips will help you create a delicious and satisfying Bean and Ham Soup that everyone will love.

Healthier Alternatives for the Soup

While Bean and Ham Soup is already a healthy option, there are some alternatives you can try to make it even healthier. Here are some suggestions:

• Use low-sodium chicken broth instead of water to reduce the sodium content.
• Use lean ham or turkey instead of fatty ham.
• Replace the ham with tofu or seitan for a vegetarian or vegan option.

These alternatives will help you create a Bean and Ham Soup that is perfect for your dietary needs and preferences.

Origin of Bean and Ham Soup

Bean and Ham Soup has been a popular dish in American cuisine for many years. The exact origin of the dish is unclear, but it is believed to have originated in the southern United States.

"Bean soup, and mush, are two dishes coming under the head of 'hog and hominy,' which always played an important part in the bill of fare at plantation houses." - Frederick Law Olmsted, 1856

This quote from Frederick Law Olmsted shows that Bean and Ham Soup has been a staple dish in southern cuisine for over a century.