Great Northern Bean and Christmas Ham Soup

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Great Northern Bean and Christmas Ham Soup – Yumm!

Introduction

Great Northern Bean and Christmas Ham Soup is a cozy, soul-satisfying dish that turns holiday leftovers into pure comfort. With its creamy white beans, tender chunks of ham, and aromatic vegetables simmered in a flavorful broth, this soup is both hearty and nourishing. It’s the perfect way to warm up a chilly evening while making the most of leftover Christmas ham — a tradition in many homes that keeps the holiday spirit alive, one delicious bowl at a time.

Origin and Cultural Significance

This beloved soup has deep roots in American home cooking, particularly in Southern and Midwestern kitchens where resourcefulness and comfort reign supreme. After festive feasts, families often used leftover ham bones to flavor beans and broths, creating dishes that were both frugal and flavorful.
The combination of Great Northern beans and ham embodies the essence of post-holiday tradition — nothing wasted, everything savored. Over generations, it has become a winter staple symbolizing togetherness, gratitude, and the warmth of home-cooked meals shared around the table.

Ingredients Quantity

  • 1 pound (about 2 cups) dried Great Northern beans, rinsed and sorted
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 carrots, diced
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (plus more if needed)
  • 2 cups diced cooked ham (or use a ham bone for added flavor)
  • 1 bay leaf
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
  • Salt, to taste (add after simmering to avoid oversalting)
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for depth)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Optional Additions

  • Vegetable Boost: Add chopped kale, spinach, or collard greens during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
  • Creamy Touch: Stir in a splash of cream or a knob of butter before serving for a silky texture.
  • Spice it Up: A pinch of crushed red pepper adds warmth and contrast to the savory broth.
  • Flavor Layer: Add a Parmesan rind to the simmering soup for an extra umami kick.

Tips for Success

  1. Soak the beans overnight for a softer texture and quicker cooking. Alternatively, use the quick soak method: boil for 2 minutes, then rest 1 hour before draining.
  2. Sauté aromatics first to build a rich flavor base.
  3. Simmer gently — high heat can make beans split or turn mushy.
  4. Add salt late in the cooking process; adding it too soon can toughen beans.
  5. Let it rest for 15–20 minutes before serving to let the flavors meld beautifully.

Instructions

  1. Prepare the beans: Soak overnight or use the quick soak method. Drain and rinse before cooking.
  2. Sauté vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
  3. Build the soup: Add broth, beans, diced ham (or ham bone), bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and paprika. Stir to combine.
  4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 1½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the soup thickens.
  5. Finish and adjust: Remove bay leaf and ham bone (if used). Add apple cider vinegar or lemon juice for brightness. Taste and adjust seasoning.
  6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread.

Description

This soup is the very definition of rustic comfort. Each spoonful delivers creamy beans infused with smoky, savory ham flavor, complemented by the sweetness of slow-cooked carrots and onions. The broth is rich yet light, making it perfect for both hearty meals and gentle suppers. It’s the kind of dish that fills your kitchen with warmth and your spirit with contentment — simple ingredients transformed into something extraordinary.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – about 1½ cups)

  • Calories: 320
  • Protein: 22g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 35g
  • Fiber: 9g
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Sugars: 4g

Conclusion

Great Northern Bean and Christmas Ham Soup is proof that leftovers can become something spectacular. It honors the heart of traditional cooking — resourcefulness, flavor, and family. Perfect after the holidays or anytime you crave wholesome comfort, it’s a meal that nourishes body and soul with every bite.

Recommendation

Pair this soup with a slice of warm cornbread, homemade biscuits, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal. It also freezes beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or cozy lunches throughout winter.

Embracing Healthful Indulgence

This soup embodies healthful indulgence — it’s rich in protein, fiber, and vitamins while remaining low in fat and full of natural flavor. Using leftover ham promotes sustainability and mindful cooking, while the slow simmering process draws out deep, satisfying nutrition. Every bowl reminds us that true indulgence lies not in excess, but in savoring wholesome, homemade comfort crafted with love.

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