Ham and Bean Soup (Slow Cooker) Recipe

Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

This slow cooker ham and bean soup is a hearty and comforting dish, perfect for using up leftover ham. It’s easy to prepare and fills your home with a delicious aroma as it cooks.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans (or any white beans), rinsed and soaked overnight
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced (or leftover ham bone for added flavor)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional)
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
   • If using dried beans, rinse them and soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse again before using. This step helps to soften the beans and reduce cooking time.
2. Sauté Vegetables (Optional):
   • In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Combine Ingredients in Slow Cooker:
   • In the slow cooker, combine the soaked beans, diced ham, sautéed vegetables (if you sautéed them), chicken or vegetable broth, thyme, bay leaf, and Dijon mustard (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Cook the Soup:
   • Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, or until the beans are tender. If you used a ham bone, remove it before serving and shred any remaining ham from the bone to add back to the soup.
5. Season and Serve:
   • Once the beans are tender, season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
   • Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete meal.

Tips:

• Storage: This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and can be frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like potatoes, green beans, or spinach for added nutrition. You can also add spices like smoked paprika or red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

Enjoy your warm and hearty ham and bean soup!