Welcome to the cozy world of comfort food with this Savory Ham and White Bean Delight. This hearty soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is a warm, satisfying meal that’s both easy to make and a delight to eat.
Smoked ham adds a rich, savory flavor that makes this soup irresistibly tasty. Great northern beans are creamy and mild, perfect for absorbing the flavors around them. Onion, carrots, and celery form the classic mirepoix, the aromatic base that gives depth to the soup. Garlic adds a punch of flavor, while chicken broth provides a savory liquid base. Bay leaf and dried thyme bring subtle herbal notes, and a touch of black pepper balances the flavors. Finally, a bit of olive oil is used for sautéing, helping to meld the flavors together.
This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty sourdough or a warm baguette. For a bit of greenery, a simple side salad with a light vinaigrette complements the savory flavors perfectly.
Start by heating up the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once it’s nice and hot, toss in the onion, carrots, and celery. Let them cook for about five minutes until they’re soft and the onion turns translucent. This is your flavor base, so make sure they're well cooked.
Next, add the garlic. Stir it around for about a minute until the aroma hits you, then quickly move on to adding the diced ham and beans. Pour in the chicken broth, and toss in the bay leaf, thyme, and black pepper. Stir everything together to make sure the ingredients are well combined.
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Let it bubble away for about 30 minutes. This will help all the flavors meld together nicely. Before serving, make sure to fish out the bay leaf and add salt to taste. Serve it hot, maybe with some crusty bread on the side.
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