Ham and bean soup

Here’s a simple, comforting ham and bean soup 🍲
It’s easy to make and great for leftovers.

Easy Ham and Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 cup dried beans (navy or white beans) or 2 cups canned beans
• 1–2 cups cooked ham (diced)
• 1 small onion (chopped)
• 1 carrot (chopped, optional)
• 1 celery stalk (chopped, optional)
• 2–3 cups water or broth
• Salt & pepper
• Optional: garlic, bay leaf

Steps

1. If using dried beans: soak overnight, then rinse.
   (Skip this if using canned beans.)
2. In a pot, add beans, ham, onion, carrot, celery, and broth.
3. Bring to a gentle boil, then lower to a simmer.
4. Cook:
   • Dried beans: 60–90 minutes
   • Canned beans: 25–30 minutes
5. Season with salt & pepper near the end.
6. Remove bay leaf if used and serve warm.

Tips

• Mash a few beans to thicken the soup.
• Tastes even better the next day.
• Serve with bread or crackers.

Want it thicker, spicier, or made in a slow cooker?