Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup is a solace, slow cooked dish that brings warmth and vigour to any meal. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, this recipe transforms unproblematic ingredients into a rich, savory soup erupt with flavor. With tender ham, creamy beans, and aromatic spices simmered gently over hours, every spoonful offers a satisfying blend of texture and taste. Whether you're ready for family or give one, this crock pot recipe delivers restroom without compromise just set it, forget it, and savor the results. The beauty lies in its simplicity: minimal chopping, no fussy cleanup, and maximum flavor developed slow through low and slow prepare.
Ingredients You ll Need
To craft the perfect Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup, gather these indispensable components: 1 large ham (about 2 3 pounds), cubed and skin removed 1 can (15 oz) pinto or black beans, gargle and drained 1 medium onion, finely chop 2 cloves garlic, soften 1 medium carrot, cube 1 stalk celery, sliced 1 cup frozen corn (optional but highly recommend) 4 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth 1 tablespoon tomato paste 1 teaspoon dried thyme 1 bay leaf 1 teaspoon fume paprika Salt and pepper to taste 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing, optional)Note: Using fresh vegetables instead of sack adds depth, but canned works perfectly for speed and consistency.
Step by Step Instructions
- Begin by preparing your ingredients: cube the ham, chop the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery, and measure out the beans and broth.
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3 4 minutes. Stir in the soften garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the cube carrot and celery, then stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to heighten the feeling.
- Transfer the sautéed vegetables to the crock pot. Add the cubed ham, rinsed and drained, along with the wash beans, corn (if using), bay leaf, thyme, and fume paprika.
- Pour in the broth and stir lightly to combine all ingredients equally.
- Season liberally with salt and peppercorn this soup benefits from balanced flavour, peculiarly since the ham contributes natural salinity.
- Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6 to 8 hours, or high for 3 to 4 hours. The slow cooking allows the flavors to meld and the ham to get melt in your mouth attendant.
- Before serving, remove the bay leaf and adjust seasoning if needed. For extra richness, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream.
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cubed ham | 2 3 lbs | Main protein source, adds smoky depth |
| Pinto or black beans | 1 can (15 oz) | Heartiness and fibre, establish of the soup |
| Onion | 1 medium | Base flavor, softens during fix |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Adds pungent aroma and complexity |
| Carrot | 1 medium | Natural sweetness and texture |
| Celery | 1 stalk | Balances richness with crispness |
| Frozen corn | 1 cup | Sweet crunch, optional but enhances mouthfeel |
| Broth | 4 cups | Liquid foundation, controls consistency |
| Tomato paste | 1 tbsp | Intensifies umami and depth |
| Dried thyme | 1 tsp | Herbal note that complements ham |
| Bay leaf | 1 leaf | Subtle, earthy smell that develops slowly |
| Smoked paprika | 1 tsp | Adds warm, smoky dimension |
| Salt peppercorn | to taste | Balances and enhances all other flavors |
Note: Cooking time varies slightly based on ham size larger pieces may need up to 8 hours on low to control tenderness.
For a creamier texture, stir in a tablespoon of sour cream or a dollop of Greek yogurt just before serving. This adds cornucopia without overmaster the original flavors.
This Crock Pot Ham and Bean Soup is more than just a meal it s a comforting ritual. The slow cook process breaks down tough ham fibers and softens beans into a velvety base, while the redolent herbs and spices create layers of warmth. It s ideal for meal prep, freezing leftovers well, or share with enjoy ones. The beauty of this recipe lies in its balance: hearty enough to satisfy, yet gentle enough for daily enjoyment. Whether function with crusty bread, a side salad, or a sprinkle of fresh parsley, each bowl delivers satisfaction with every bite.
With minimum effort and maximum flavor, this soup proves that slow cooking transforms ordinary ingredients into something extraordinary. It s a dateless favorite that fits seamlessly into busy lives, volunteer nourishment wrapped in warmth. The effect is a bowl of soul food, ready to comfort and delight utterly suited for any day when you desire something truly fulfill.
Related Terms:
- slow cooker bean soup recipe
- ham and bean soup recipe