### Best Bean Soup Recipe with Ham Bone for Cozy Winter Nights

If you're looking for a heartwarming and delicious meal to enjoy during those chilly winter evenings, look no further than the best bean soup recipe with ha……

If you're looking for a heartwarming and delicious meal to enjoy during those chilly winter evenings, look no further than the best bean soup recipe with ham bone. This classic dish combines the rich, savory flavors of a ham bone with the comforting texture of beans to create a soup that's both nutritious and satisfying. In this detailed guide, we'll walk you through every step of preparing this delectable soup, ensuring you get the most out of your ingredients and time.

#### Ingredients for the Best Bean Soup Recipe with Ham Bone

To start, gather the following ingredients:

- 1 ham bone with some meat still attached

- 1 pound of dried beans (such as navy beans, cannellini beans, or a mixed bean blend)

- 1 large onion, finely chopped

- 2-3 cloves of garlic, minced

- 2-3 carrots, peeled and diced

- 2-3 celery stalks, diced

- 1 can of diced tomatoes (optional)

- 2-3 bay leaves

- 1 teaspoon dried thyme

- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary

- Salt and pepper to taste

- 8 cups of water or chicken broth

- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

#### Preparing the Beans

For the best bean soup recipe with ham bone, you'll want to start by preparing your beans. If you're using dried beans, it's crucial to soak them overnight. This not only reduces cooking time but also helps in breaking down some of the complex sugars that can cause digestive discomfort.

1. Rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water.

2. Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with at least 2 inches of water.

3. Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.

4. Drain and rinse the beans again before adding them to your soup.

#### Cooking the Bean Soup Recipe with Ham Bone

1. **Sauté the Vegetables:**

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

2. **Add the Ham Bone and Beans:**

Place the ham bone in the pot along with the soaked and drained beans. Stir to combine with the sautéed vegetables.

3. **Season the Soup:**

Add the bay leaves, dried thyme, and dried rosemary. Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring that the ham bone and beans are fully submerged. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper, keeping in mind that the ham bone will add its own saltiness to the soup.

4. **Simmer the Soup:**

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover the pot and cook for about 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. Stir occasionally and check the liquid levels, adding more water or broth if necessary.

5. **Remove the Ham Bone:**

Once the beans are fully cooked, carefully remove the ham bone from the pot. Let it cool slightly before removing any remaining meat from the bone. Chop the meat into small pieces and return it to the soup. Discard the bone.

6. **Optional Additions:**

If you like a slightly thicker soup, you can use a potato masher to mash some of the beans directly in the pot. If you're using canned diced tomatoes, add them now and let the soup simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes.

7. **Final Seasoning:**

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. Remove the bay leaves before serving.

#### Serving the Bean Soup Recipe with Ham Bone

Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with a slice of crusty bread or a simple side salad. The best bean soup recipe with ham bone is not only a comforting meal but also a great way to use up leftover ham bones, making it both economical and delicious.

Enjoy your cozy winter nights with this hearty and flavorful soup that’s sure to become a family favorite.