I’ll never forget the first time I made ham and bean winter soup with my grandmother in Crete. Even though ham wasn’t a common ingredient on our island, she loved adapting recipes from all over the world, and this one quickly became a winter favorite in our home. There’s something magical about a pot bubbling on the stove, the aroma filling the kitchen, and the warmth of soup bringing everyone together. This ham and bean winter soup isn’t just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl, perfect for chilly evenings when you want comfort and flavor without fuss.
I love how this soup is simple but hearty. The beans are tender, the ham is smoky, and a few vegetables give it that fresh, homey touch. Every spoonful reminds me of those evenings spent chatting with my grandmother, laughing as we stirred the pot together. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this ham and bean winter soup is easy to make and incredibly satisfying. It’s one of those recipes where the leftovers taste even better the next day.
The beauty of this ham and bean winter soup is its versatility. You can make it with a ham bone, leftover ham, or even smoked sausage if you prefer. It’s forgiving, forgiving, and adaptable perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. And let’s be honest, who doesn’t love a recipe that warms your belly and your heart at the same time?
Ingredients for Ham and Bean Winter Soup
- 2 cups dried white beans (or 4 cups canned, drained and rinsed)
- 1 lb smoked ham or ham hock
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the beans
If using dried beans, soak them overnight in cold water. Drain and rinse before cooking. - Sauté the vegetables
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened. Add garlic and cook another minute. - Add the ham and herbs
Stir in the ham or ham hock, thyme, rosemary, and bay leaves. Let the flavors mingle for a couple of minutes. - Simmer with broth
Add the broth and beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 1–1.5 hours if using dried beans, or 30 minutes if using canned. Stir occasionally. - Season and finish
Remove bay leaves and adjust salt and pepper. If using a ham hock, remove it, shred the meat, and return it to the soup. - Serve and enjoy
Ladle hot soup into bowls, sprinkle with fresh parsley, and enjoy the cozy warmth of this comforting ham and bean winter soup.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. 🥖
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal. 🥗
- Top with a sprinkle of Parmesan for extra flavor. 🧀
Tips for the Perfect Ham and Bean Winter Soup
⏱️ Time Cook: 1–1.5 hours for dried beans | 30–40 mins for canned
🧺 Ingredients: Always use a ham bone or smoked ham for depth of flavor
👩🍳 Instructions: Don’t forget to soak beans overnight for even cooking
📝 Note: This soup tastes even better the next day as flavors meld
🔥 Nutrition: High in protein and fiber, low in fat (varies depending on ham choice)
Why This Soup Is So Special
This ham and bean winter soup is more than just a meal it’s a story. It brings together the flavors of smoky ham, earthy beans, and fragrant herbs in a way that warms your home and heart. The simplicity of the recipe makes it perfect for busy families, while the nostalgic comfort it delivers makes it unforgettable. Whether you’re sharing it with friends or savoring it on a quiet night, this soup embodies everything I love about cooking: warmth, joy, and connection.
100-Word Short Version Recipe
Warm up your winter with this hearty ham and bean winter soup. Soak 2 cups of white beans overnight. Sauté 1 chopped onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 celery stalks in olive oil. Add 1 lb smoked ham, 3 minced garlic cloves, 1 tsp thyme, 1 tsp rosemary, 2 bay leaves, and 6 cups broth. Simmer 1–1.5 hours until beans are tender. Remove bay leaves, shred ham if needed, season with salt and pepper, and garnish with parsley. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy, flavorful meal that brings warmth to every winter day.