I recently made Navy Bean Soup, and I can’t stop raving about it! There’s nothing quite like the soothing warmth of a homemade bowl of this hearty soup on a chilly evening. The creamy texture, smoky layers of flavor, and filling beans make it a comforting classic.
It’s one of those recipes that feels like an old family tradition, and you don’t need to be a seasoned chef to whip it up. This soup brought a sense of joy to my kitchen, filling the air with rich, savory aromas.
Whether you’re cooking for guests or enjoying a quiet dinner at home, this dish is bound to be a hit. Trust me, this is going to be your new favorite soup recipe.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe?
A delicious, versatile dish is always a winner. Here’s why Navy Bean Soup needs to be on your menu.
It’s Easy to Make
You don’t have to be a pro in the kitchen to prepare this soup. The steps are simple to follow, and most of the cooking just requires keeping an eye on the pot.
It’s Affordable
Navy beans and basic vegetables are inexpensive ingredients, so this recipe is budget-friendly. You get a hearty, satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
Customizable for Any Diet
You can easily tailor this dish to suit a vegetarian or gluten-free diet. Add more veggies, swap out the ham for plant-based options, or use vegetable broth for a lighter twist.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This soup makes a generous batch, so you can prepare it on Sunday and enjoy warm bowls throughout the week. It also freezes beautifully!
Comfort in Every Bite
Nothing beats the creamy, hearty texture of perfectly cooked navy beans paired with savory ham or a smoky broth. It’s the food equivalent of a cozy blanket!
Cooking Time
Here’s all you need to know about the time commitment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 50 minutes
- Total Time: 2 hours
Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make Navy Bean Soup.
- Dried navy beans
- Yellow onion
- Carrot
- Celery
- Garlic
- Ham (thick-cut, cooked)
- Olive oil
- Bay leaves
- Black pepper
- Kosher salt
- Dried thyme
- Dried rosemary
- Smoked ham hock (optional)
- Chicken broth
- Unsalted butter
Variations
Switch things up to fit your taste or dietary preferences.
- Swap the ham and chicken broth for a vegetarian version with veggie stock and more hearty vegetables, like parsnips or celery root.
- Add a Parmesan rind while simmering for extra depth of flavor.
- Make it dairy-free by skipping the butter or using plant-based alternatives.
- For a slightly sweet note, toss in a handful of diced sweet potatoes.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – to soak and cook the beans.
- Knife and cutting board – to chop the vegetables and ham.
- Wooden spoon – for stirring ingredients as they cook.
- Immersion blender (optional) – to achieve a creamier texture.
- Colander – for rinsing and draining the beans.
How to Make Navy Bean Soup?
Making this soup is simple and fun! Follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a flavorful bowl in no time. 😊
Step 1: Prep the Beans
Start by rinsing your dried navy beans to remove any broken or discolored pieces. Add them to a pot with hot water and bring to a boil. After a quick 2-minute boil, remove the pot from heat and cover. Let the beans soak for an hour. This step ensures they cook evenly and achieve a tender texture.
Step 2: Chop Your Ingredients
Dice your onion, celery, carrot, garlic, and ham. Prepping all your ingredients before cooking saves time later and keeps things stress-free.
Step 3: Sauté Your Base
Heat olive oil in your pot and sauté the chopped onion, carrot, and celery for about 3 minutes, letting the vegetables release their flavors. Stir in the garlic, ham, bay leaves, and seasonings, cooking until everything is fragrant.
Step 4: Add the Beans and Broth
Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. If you’re using a ham hock for smokiness, nestle it in now. Pour in the chicken broth and give everything a good stir. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. 🍲
Step 5: Finish the Soup
Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock. Stir in unsalted butter for added richness. If you prefer a creamier soup, mash some beans in the pot or blend a portion before serving. Taste and season with salt as needed. 🌟
Tips for Making the Recipe
Make your Navy Bean Soup even better with these simple tips.
- Pre-soak the Beans: Although a quick soak works, letting the beans sit overnight in cold water results in even creamier beans.
- Don’t Forget to Stir: Occasionally stir the soup while it simmers to prevent beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
- Adjust Flavors After Cooking: The broth might need a touch more salt or a fresh grind of black pepper at the end. Taste and tweak!
- Use Fresh Herbs: If you have fresh thyme or rosemary, a sprinkle at the end adds a bright pop of flavor.
How to Serve Navy Bean Soup?
Serve Navy Bean Soup piping hot with your favorite toppings. Freshly chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil can brighten the dish. Pair it with crusty bread for dipping, or add a green side salad for a complete meal. You could also sprinkle some grated Parmesan or crumbled bacon on top for extra indulgence.
Nutritional Information
Each serving of Navy Bean Soup is packed with nutrients. Here’s a quick breakdown:
- Calories: 435
- Protein: 33.6g
- Carbohydrates: 41.0g
- Fat: 16.3g
Make Ahead and Storage
Navy Bean Soup is perfect for making ahead.
Once the soup cools, transfer the leftovers into airtight containers. You can refrigerate it for up to 1 week or freeze it for up to 3 months. To freeze, make sure the soup is completely cooled first. For easy portions, divide it into smaller containers before storing. When ready to enjoy, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove. The flavors only get better over time!
Dive into this Navy Bean Soup recipe, and you’ll discover the ultimate comfort food. From its hearty flavors to its customizable options, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Happy cooking! 👩🍳