Save Ham Bone Bean Soup with Smoky Paprika is a hearty, flavorful soup featuring tender beans, savory ham, and a hint of smoky paprika—perfect for chilly days and making the most of a leftover ham bone. This comforting meal transforms simple pantry staples and leftovers into a rich, satisfying dish that warms the soul.
Save The process begins with sautéing fresh vegetables and aromatic spices, creating a fragrant base for the beans to simmer in. As the ham bone releases its essence into the broth, the beans become tender, absorbing all the smoky and herbal notes from the thyme, oregano, and paprika.
Ingredients
- Meats: 1 leftover ham bone (with some meat attached), 1 cup diced cooked ham (optional, for extra meatiness).
- Beans & Legumes: 2 cups dried navy beans (or great northern beans), rinsed and soaked overnight.
- Vegetables: 1 large onion (finely chopped), 2 carrots (diced), 2 celery stalks (diced), 3 cloves garlic (minced), 1 bay leaf.
- Seasonings: 1 ½ teaspoons smoked paprika, ½ teaspoon black pepper, ½ teaspoon dried thyme, ½ teaspoon dried oregano, salt to taste.
- Liquids: 8 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth, 1 tablespoon olive oil.
Instructions
- Step 1
- Drain and rinse the soaked beans. Set aside.
- Step 2
- Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
- Step 3
- Stir in garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, oregano, and black pepper. Cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
- Step 4
- Add the ham bone, soaked beans, bay leaf, and broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 ½ to 2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and soup is flavorful.
- Step 5
- Remove the ham bone from the pot. Let cool slightly, then pick off any meat and return it to the soup. Discard bone and bay leaf.
- Step 6
- If desired, add diced cooked ham for extra protein. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and more pepper if needed.
- Step 7
- Serve hot, optionally garnished with fresh parsley or a swirl of olive oil.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For a creamier texture, mash some of the beans in the pot before serving. This simple trick thickens the broth naturally without the need for cream or flour. If you have extra time, a longer simmer at a lower temperature will only make the flavors more concentrated.
Varianten und Anpassungen
If you don't have a ham bone, you can substitute a smoked turkey leg for a smoky, pork-free version. You can also use great northern beans or cannellini beans as an alternative to navy beans for a slightly different texture.
Serviervorschläge
This soup is excellent served with crusty bread or cornbread for dipping. To elevate the meal, pair it with a light red wine, such as Pinot Noir, which complements the smoky undertones of the paprika and ham.
Save With 310 calories and 25 grams of protein per serving, this Ham Bone Bean Soup is a nourishing way to enjoy a chilly evening. It is a classic American comfort dish that proves how simple ingredients can create a deeply satisfying and wholesome family meal.
Kitchen Guide
- → Can I use other beans instead of navy beans?
Yes, great northern beans are a suitable alternative and will provide a similar texture and taste.
- → How do I remove the ham bone meat effectively?
After simmering, let the bone cool slightly, then carefully pick off any meat with a fork or fingers to return to the soup.
- → Is it possible to make a pork-free version?
Substitute the ham bone with a smoked turkey leg for a similar smoky flavor without pork.
- → How can I thicken the soup for a creamier texture?
Mash a portion of the cooked beans in the pot before serving to add natural thickness and creaminess.
- → What sides pair well with this dish?
Crusty bread or cornbread complements the soup nicely, along with a light red wine such as Pinot Noir.