Navy Bean Soup

Warm, hearty, and bursting with flavor, Navy Bean Soup is a classic comfort dish perfect for any occasion. This wholesome recipe combines tender Navy beans, savory smoked ham shank, and a medley of vegetables simmered to perfection in a flavorful broth. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a comforting meal year-round, this soup is sure to satisfy with its rich taste and comforting aroma. Discover how easy it is to prepare this timeless favorite and make it a staple in your kitchen repertoire.

Ingredients:

• 16 ounces Navy Beans
• 1 pound Smoked Ham Shank, rinsed
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 medium Onion, finely diced
• 2 Carrots, diced
• 2 Celery Ribs, diced
• 3-4 Garlic Cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon Tomato Paste
• 1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
• 1 teaspoon Spanish Paprika
• ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 4 cups Water
• 1 Bay Leaf
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:

• Pick through the beans to remove any foreign objects. Rinse thoroughly.
• Soak the beans using the overnight or quick soak method.

2. Prepare the Ham Shank:

• Rinse the smoked ham shank with cold water and pat dry.

3. Cook the Soup:

• Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 minutes.
• Add garlic, tomato paste, oregano, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
• Add smoked ham shank, navy beans, chicken broth, water, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 60 minutes.
• Remove ham shank, chop meat, and return to pot. Continue cooking for another 15 minutes or until beans are tender.
• Season with salt to taste. Remove bay leaf before serving.

4. Enjoy Your Meal:

• This Navy Bean Soup is packed with flavor and makes for a wholesome meal any time of year. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, satisfying taste of homemade goodness.

serving and storage tips:

Serving Tips :

• Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil over each serving for a burst of color and flavor.
• Accompaniments: Serve with crusty bread, garlic bread, or cornbread on the side to complement the hearty flavors of the soup.
• Cheese Option: Offer grated Parmesan or sharp cheddar cheese at the table for those who enjoy an extra layer of richness.

Storage Tips:

• Cooling Down: Allow the soup to cool to room temperature before storing to prevent condensation in the storage container.
• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Freezing: For longer storage, freeze cooled soup in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags. Leave some space at the top as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Labeling: Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Thawing and Reheating: Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator or gently reheat from frozen in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.

Additional Tips:

• Flavor Development: Soups often develop deeper flavors over time, so don’t hesitate to make this soup a day ahead for even richer taste.
• Batch Cooking: Consider doubling the recipe to have extra portions on hand for busy days or unexpected guests.
• Variety: Experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor to your liking each time you reheat it.

Variations :

1. Vegetarian Option:
   • Replace the smoked ham shank with smoked paprika for a smoky flavor or add smoked tofu for a vegetarian twist.
   • Increase the amount of vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or spinach for added texture and nutrition.
2. Spicy Kick:
   • Add a diced jalapeño or red pepper flakes during cooking for a spicy version.
   • Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to balance the heat.
3. Creamy Variation:
   • Stir in a cup of heavy cream or coconut milk towards the end of cooking for a creamy texture.
   • Blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender before adding the ham back in for a smoother consistency.
4. Herb Infusion:
   • Experiment with different herbs such as thyme, rosemary, or sage for unique flavor profiles.
   • Add fresh herbs towards the end of cooking for a burst of fresh flavor.
5. Chunky Style:
   • Keep the vegetables and ham in larger chunks for a heartier texture.
   • Serve with crusty bread for dipping.
6. Citrus Twist:
   • Add a splash of fresh lemon or lime juice just before serving to brighten up the flavors.
   • Garnish with lemon or lime zest for an extra citrusy kick.
7. Bean Varieties:
   • Substitute Navy Beans with other beans like cannellini beans, great northern beans, or black-eyed peas for a different taste and texture.
8. Mushroom and Barley Version:

• Add sliced mushrooms and barley to the soup for a heartier texture. Cook until the barley is tender and adjust the broth as needed.

FAQs :

1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried Navy Beans?
   • Yes, you can substitute canned Navy Beans for dried beans. Rinse and drain them before adding to the soup, adjusting cooking times accordingly.
2. How can I make this soup vegetarian?
   • To make this soup vegetarian, omit the smoked ham shank and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor.
3. Can I freeze Navy Bean Soup?
   • Yes, Navy Bean Soup freezes well. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
4. What can I serve with Navy Bean Soup?
   • Navy Bean Soup pairs well with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a side salad. It’s also delicious with cornbread or crackers.
5. How do I thicken Navy Bean Soup?
   • To thicken the soup, you can blend a portion of the soup with an immersion blender or mash some of the beans with a spoon. Alternatively, let it simmer uncovered for a bit longer to reduce the liquid.
6. Can I add other vegetables to Navy Bean Soup?
   • Yes, feel free to add additional vegetables like diced tomatoes, bell peppers, spinach, or kale to enhance the flavor and nutritional content.
7. What’s the best way to soak Navy Beans?
   • You can soak Navy Beans overnight in water, or use the quick soak method by boiling them for 2 minutes and letting them sit for an hour off the heat before rinsing.
8. How can I adjust the seasoning to my taste?
   • Taste the soup before serving and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional herbs and spices according to your preference.
9. Can I make Navy Bean Soup in a slow cooker or Instant Pot?
   • Yes, you can adapt this recipe for a slow cooker by following the initial sauté steps in a skillet, then transferring everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours. For an Instant Pot, use the sauté function first, then pressure cook on high for about 20-25 minutes with a natural release.
10. How long does Navy Bean Soup last in the refrigerator?
    • Navy Bean Soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days in an airtight container. Ensure it cools completely before refrigerating.

These FAQs should help answer common queries about making and storing Navy Bean Soup, providing additional helpful information to your readers.

Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or looking to warm up on a chilly day, this Navy Bean Soup recipe is sure to please. Follow these easy steps to create a hearty dish that’s as nutritious as it is delicious.

Try this Navy Bean Soup recipe today and discover why it’s a classic favorite for all occasions!