Teresa's Recipes
Hearty Pinto Bean and Ham Soup
Warm your soul with this delightful Pinto Bean and Ham Soup, a classic comfort food that combines tender pinto beans with smoky ham and an array of vibrant vegetables. This dish is not only hearty and filling but also brimming with flavors that evoke feelings of home and nostalgia. Perfect for chilly evenings or as a satisfying meal shared with loved ones, this soup is a true testament to the rustic origins of Southern cuisine, where beans and ham have long been cherished staples.
Ingredients
- 1 cup, dried Pinto beans
- 1 cup, diced Ham
- 6 cups Chicken broth
- 1 medium, chopped Onion
- 2 medium, diced Carrots
- 2 stalks, diced Celery
- 3 cloves, minced Garlic
- 1 teaspoon Dried thyme
- 2 Bay leaves
- to taste Salt
- to taste Black pepper
- for garnish Fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons Olive oil
Dietary Notes
- Servings: 6
- Dish Type: Soup
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 2 hours
- Calories: 280
- Fat: 8g
- Carbs: 40g
- Protein: 15g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Sugar: 3g
Instructions
- Rinse the pinto beans under cold water and soak them overnight in a large bowl of water. Drain and set aside before using.
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced ham and sauté until browned and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Stir in the soaked pinto beans, chicken broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the pinto beans are tender and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- Remove the bay leaves from the soup and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips
- For a bit of heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños while sautéing the vegetables.
- You can substitute the ham with smoked turkey or bacon for a different flavor profile.
- This soup freezes well, so make a big batch and store leftovers in airtight containers for a quick meal later.