White Bean and Ham Soup

 White Bean & Ham Soup

White Bean and Ham Soup is a hearty soup made with white beans, ham hocks or ham leftovers, vegetables like carrots and celery, and various seasonings. It's a comforting dish known for its rich flavors and substantial texture.

Here's a recipe for White Bean and Ham Soup:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried white beans, soaked overnight and drained
• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Olive oil for sautéing

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are softened.
2. Add minced garlic and continue to sauté for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add soaked and drained white beans to the pot. Stir well to combine with the vegetables.
4. Pour in the broth, add the ham hock or diced ham, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
6. If using a ham hock, remove it from the soup, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bay leaves.
7. Adjust seasoning if necessary and serve hot. Optionally, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley.

Enjoy your homemade White Bean and Ham Soup!