Ham Bone Bean Soup

Traditional Ham Bean Soup. Top with some onions and eat with a side of corn bread and it's like Grandma's house on a spoon!

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Step 1

Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold running water. Remove any damaged beans or debris. For best results, soak the beans overnight in a large bowl covered with water. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes, removing them from heat, and letting them sit for 1 hour.

Step 2

Drain and rinse the soaked beans before using.

Step 3

Heat the olive oil in a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften.

Step 4

Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 5

Place the ham bone into the pot with the vegetables. Add the soaked beans, water, bay leaves, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika.

Step 6

Increase the heat and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.

Step 7

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover partially with a lid. Allow the soup to simmer gently for approximately 2 hours, stirring occasionally.

Step 8

As the soup cooks, the beans will become tender and the ham bone will release its rich flavor into the broth.

Step 9

Carefully remove the ham bone from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool for several minutes until safe to handle.

Step 10

Remove any remaining meat from the bone and chop it into bite-sized pieces. Discard the bone, fat, and any cartilage.

Step 11

Return the chopped ham meat and the additional diced cooked ham to the pot. Stir well and continue cooking for another 15 to 20 minutes.

Step 12

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt and additional pepper if needed.

Step 13

For a brighter flavor, stir in a tablespoon of lemon juice before serving.

Step 14

Remove the bay leaves. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Step 15

Serve hot with crusty bread, cornbread, or crackers for a complete meal.

Step 16

Recipe Tips

Step 17

Choose the Right Beans

Step 18

Navy beans and great northern beans are the most popular choices for ham bone soup because they become creamy while maintaining their shape. Cannellini beans can also be used.

Step 19

Make It Thicker

Step 20

If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. This creates a naturally creamy texture without adding dairy.

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