Old Country Ham and Bean Soup

Name: Old Country Ham and Bean Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 1 h
Total time: 1 h 15 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 pound cooked ham, diced; 2 carrots, sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; 1 bay leaf; Salt and pepper to taste; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Comfort Kitchen

I love making Old Country Ham and Bean Soup, especially on chilly days when something hearty is needed. This soup takes me back to my grandmother's kitchen, filled with comforting aromas that warm the soul. It's incredibly satisfying to see the beans soften and absorb the flavors of savory ham, garlic, and herbs. It’s a dish that not only fills your belly but also brings to mind cherished memories. Whether served on a cozy night in or shared with family, this soup has a way of bringing people together.

Created by

The Jamescookbook Team

Last updated on 2026-02-14T17:18:19.914Z

One of my favorite aspects of this soup is how the leftovers taste even better the next day. The flavors meld beautifully overnight, creating an even more robust dish. I always make a large batch, knowing that it will be devoured quickly. The combination of beans with smoky ham is simply irresistible!

A key tip I discovered is to let the soup simmer long enough to ensure the beans are tender and the broth rich. Patience is essential in this recipe. Using high-quality ham and fresh herbs makes a noticeable difference, so I always opt for the best ingredients I can find.

Why You Will Love This Soup

Rich smoky flavor from the ham that infuses every bite
Creamy texture from the slow-cooked beans
Hearty and filling, perfect for cold weather
Great for meal prepping and tastes even better the next day

Understanding the Ingredients

Each ingredient in this Old Country Ham and Bean Soup plays a pivotal role in crafting its heartiness and flavor profile. The dried navy beans are not just fillers; they break down during cooking, thickening the broth and providing a creamy texture that balances the rich smokiness of the ham. I recommend checking the beans after soaking to ensure they're tender yet firm, avoiding mushiness later on in cooking.

The use of low-sodium chicken broth is essential here, as it allows you to control the seasoning while enhancing the overall taste. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, vegetable broth can also be used, though it will slightly alter the flavor profile. Just remember to adjust the amount of salt added later to account for the differing sodium levels.

Mastering the Cooking Technique

Sautéing the onions and garlic until translucent before adding the ham is a key technique that builds a flavor base to your soup. This step helps release the oils in the garlic, creating a fragrant aroma that permeates throughout the dish. Aim for about 5 minutes over medium heat—by then, your kitchen will smell amazing, and the onions should be glossy without browning.

When simmering the soup, remember that low and slow is the way to go. Reducing the heat after bringing the mixture to a boil allows the beans to cook evenly without breaking apart. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pot, and if the soup looks too thick, add a splash more broth or water to maintain that desirable soupy texture.

Serving and Storing Ideas

This soup not only tastes better the next day, making it a fantastic candidate for meal prepping, but it also freezes wonderfully. I recommend storing it in airtight containers, leaving some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a bit of broth if necessary.

For a delightful serving suggestion, try pairing this soup with warm, crusty bread or cornbread. A sprinkle of fresh parsley not only adds color but also a hint of freshness that complements the rich flavors beautifully. You might even want to include a side salad for a complete meal that both fills and warms the soul on chilly evenings.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to create a wholesome Old Country Ham and Bean Soup:

Ingredients

1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound cooked ham, diced
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Once you have all the ingredients ready, you're set to make this delicious soup!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps for a warm pot of Old Country Ham and Bean Soup:

Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.

Add Ham and Vegetables

Stir in the diced ham, carrots, and celery. Cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Combine Beans and Broth

Add the soaked and drained beans, chicken broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Simmer

Once boiling, reduce heat to low and let it simmer for 45-60 minutes, or until beans are tender. Stir occasionally and add water if necessary to keep it soupy.

Season and Serve

Remove the bay leaf, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with chopped parsley before serving.

This Old Country Ham and Bean Soup is not only delicious but also a fantastic way to warm up on a cold day. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For a deeper flavor, add a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving to brighten the dish.

Tips for Perfect Beans

To achieve the best texture for your beans, make sure they are properly soaked overnight. This softens them and aids in faster cooking. If you forget to soak them, you can perform a quick soak method by bringing them to a boil for 1-2 minutes and then letting them sit, covered, for about an hour before draining.

For those looking to customize the dish, consider adding additional beans such as black beans or even kidney beans for a diverse texture and flavor. Be cautious about the cooking time, as different beans may require slightly different cooking durations.

Spice it Up

If you enjoy a bit of heat, adding some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing your vegetables can elevate the flavors significantly. However, be sure to start small and adjust according to your heat tolerance since the addition should complement, not overshadow, the smoky ham flavor.

Experimenting with herbs is another way to put your personal stamp on this soup. Fresh thyme and rosemary can infuse extra depth, while a touch of smoked paprika could enhance the overall smoky essence beautifully. Just remember to add any fresh herbs towards the end of cooking to maintain their vibrant flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, if you're short on time, you can use canned beans. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the soup.

→ How long can I store the soup?

The soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

→ What can I serve with this soup?

This soup pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple side salad.

→ Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Just sauté the vegetables as directed, then combine all ingredients in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours.