Ham Soup with Pinto Beans is a comforting, hearty dish that combines savory ham with creamy pinto beans, creating a filling and delicious meal. It’s perfect for using leftover ham, especially after holidays like Christmas or Easter. This soup is rich in flavor and nutrients, with the ham providing protein and the pinto beans offering fiber and vitamins. Here’s how you can make a warm bowl of Ham Soup with Pinto Beans, great for a cozy family dinner!
Why Choose Ham Soup with Pinto Beans? 🤔
This soup is the perfect balance of protein, fiber, and flavor. Pinto beans are packed with protein, fiber, and antioxidants, making them a great base for any soup. When paired with savory ham, it creates a satisfying and filling dish.
- Ham adds a smoky, salty flavor that makes the broth rich and delicious.
- Pinto beans are an excellent source of fiber, which aids digestion and helps keep you feeling full longer.
- The soup is also highly customizable—you can add vegetables like carrots, onions, and celery for even more flavor and nutrition.
Whether you’ve got leftover ham from a family meal or are just craving a cozy, comforting soup, this recipe will warm you right up! 🍲
Ingredients for Ham Soup with Pinto Beans 📝
Here’s a simple, easy-to-follow recipe for making your own Ham Soup with Pinto Beans:
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ham, diced (use leftover ham or ham bone) 🍖
- 1 tbsp olive oil 🫒
- 1 onion, chopped 🧅
- 2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
- 2 carrots, peeled and diced 🥕
- 2 celery stalks, chopped 🌱
- 1 lb pinto beans, dried, soaked overnight or 2 cans of cooked pinto beans 🫘
- 6 cups chicken broth 🍲
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme 🌿
- 1/2 tsp paprika 🌶️
- Salt and pepper to taste 🧂
- Bay leaves (optional) 🍃
- Fresh parsley (for garnish) 🌿
Instructions for Making Ham Soup with Pinto Beans 🔪
- Prepare Pinto Beans (if using dried beans):
If you’re using dried pinto beans, you’ll need to soak them overnight in water. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the soup. If you’re using canned beans, simply drain and rinse them before use. - Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant. - Add the Vegetables:
Add the carrots and celery to the pot, and sauté for an additional 5 minutes. This will help bring out their flavors and add richness to the soup. - Add Ham and Seasonings:
Stir in the diced ham, dried thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Let the ham cook for a few minutes, allowing it to release its savory flavors into the soup. - Add the Broth and Beans:
Pour in the chicken broth and add the soaked pinto beans (or canned beans). Stir to combine everything. If you’re using a ham bone, you can add it now to infuse more flavor into the broth. - Simmer:
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours (for dried beans) or about 30 minutes (if using canned beans), or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well-combined. If you used a ham bone, you can remove it now and discard it. - Adjust Seasoning:
Taste the soup and add more salt and pepper as needed. If you want a little extra richness, you can stir in a splash of cream or milk to make the soup even creamier. - Serve:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping! 🍞
Nutritional Benefits of Ham Soup with Pinto Beans 🥄
This Ham Soup with Pinto Beans is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients! Here’s a breakdown of the nutritional benefits:
- Protein: Both ham and pinto beans are great sources of protein, which is essential for building muscles and keeping your body strong.
- Fiber: Pinto beans are high in fiber, which helps with digestion and promotes healthy gut function. Fiber also keeps you feeling full, making it easier to maintain a healthy weight.
- Vitamins and Minerals: The carrots and celery in the soup provide vitamins like A and K, while the onion and garlic offer antioxidants that boost your immune system.
- Low in Fat: This soup is relatively low in fat, especially if you use lean ham, making it a healthy choice for those who want to reduce their fat intake.
Nutritional Value of Ham Soup with Pinto Beans 🥦🍲
Let’s take a look at the nutritional value of Ham Soup with Pinto Beans per serving (1 bowl):
Table: Nutritional Value per Serving 🍽️
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value (DV) |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 300 kcal | 15% |
| Protein | 22g | 44% |
| Fat | 10g | 15% |
| Carbohydrates | 32g | 10% |
| Fiber | 9g | 36% |
| Vitamin A | 80% DV | 80% |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV | 20% |
| Calcium | 4% DV | 4% |
| Iron | 15% DV | 15% |
| Sodium | 600mg | 25% |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) ❓
1. Can I make Ham Soup with Pinto Beans without ham?
Yes! If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can leave out the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.
2. How long will Ham Soup with Pinto Beans last?
This soup lasts for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Store it in an airtight container to keep it fresh. It also freezes well for up to 3 months.
3. Can I use other beans in this soup?
Yes! You can substitute pinto beans with other beans such as navy beans, kidney beans, or cannellini beans. Each type of bean will give the soup a slightly different flavor, but the overall result will still be delicious!
4. Can I make this soup spicier?
Absolutely! If you like a little heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes, jalapeños, or even a few dashes of hot sauce to spice things up.
5. How can I make Ham Soup with Pinto Beans thicker?
If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans in the pot with a potato masher or blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender. This will create a creamier texture.
Conclusion 🎉
Ham Soup with Pinto Beans is the perfect dish for a filling, hearty, and nutritious meal. It’s great for using up leftover ham and is packed with protein, fiber, and vitamins that make it both delicious and nourishing. Whether you’re making it on a cold day or want a comforting meal to feed your family, this soup will surely be a hit!
With simple ingredients, easy preparation, and plenty of flavor, this recipe is a must-try. Don’t forget to garnish with fresh parsley and serve it with some crusty bread for the full experience! 🍞🍲
Let me know if you have any other questions or need more recipes! 😊