navy bean soup recipe It is the ultimate comforting dish, warm and hearty, loved by generations. Creamy and rich in flavor, this soup is the perfect combination of simple ingredients and bold flavors. Navy beans provide a mild, nutty flavor that pairs beautifully with smoked meats like ham and bacon, while notes like onion, garlic, and celery add layers of flavor to the soup.
If you want to make a satisfying meal for the whole family, navy bean soup is always on the way. What makes navy bean soup really special is its versatility and nutritional value. Packed with essential protein, fiber, and nutrients, it’s not only delicious but also good for you. Slow cooking breaks up the beans into smaller pieces, creating a velvety, luxurious meal without being heavy.
It clings to your ribs in the best way possible, providing comfort on cold winter nights or when you need a little more comfort. Plus, leftovers reheat beautifully, making them perfect for making ahead during busy weekdays.

Navy Bean Soup – A family tradition waiting to be realized
Beyond taste and practicality, white kidney bean soup exudes a sense of nostalgia and connection. Whether a recipe has been passed down through generations or you’re embarking on a new adventure, every bowl tells a story. The aroma of simmering beans and smoky ham evokes memories of gatherings at home and around the table.
No matter how you enjoy this versatile recipe, white kidney bean soup is a timeless classic that nourishes not only your body but also your soul. And once you have decided on your preference, it will surely become your own family tradition.
ingredient list
- navy beans – These small, oval-shaped legumes with a creamy white color add a mild, slightly nutty flavor to this delightful soup. You can save a lot of money by making it from scratch using dried white kidney beans. Great Northern beans are a good alternative.
- ham hocks – Use a smoked ham hock or two to add umami and a bit of meaty smokiness. This recipe also uses homemade dashi stock, which is divine. leftover ham Chicken soup is also great if you have access to it.
- vegetables – Onions, celery and garlic are my favorite vegetables. However, you can also get creative and add your favorite vegetables.
- seasoning – Bay leaves, paprika, thyme and Italian seasoning give it a little herbal flavor. Then a squeeze of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice brightens the overall flavor and enhances the flavor.
How to make navy bean soup
navy beans
- soak Cover the white beans with at least 2 inches of water in a large bowl and let sit for 8 to 12 hours or overnight (you may want to check on them after 1 to 2 hours and add more water if needed). To reduce soaking time, bring a pot of water to a boil, remove from heat, add beans and soak for 2 hours.
- rinse – After soaking, drain the beans and wash them thoroughly.
- boil – Next, add 8 cups (2 liters) of water, ham hock, and Italian seasoning to a large pot. Once it boils, reduce the heat and simmer. Cover and simmer for 1 hour or until beans are tender. Using an Instant Pot will save you time.
- shred ham – Remove the ham hock, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat (remove skin, fat and sinew) and set aside. Reserve inventory for later use. (Save the ham bone for another soup.)


soup
- vegetables – Heat the oil in a large soup pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onions, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, 5 to 7 minutes. (Photo 1)
- aromatic – Add the garlic and thyme and sauté for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant. (Photos 2-3)
- assemble – Add the cooked beans to the pot and pour in the reserved stock (broth or water) so that the beans are completely submerged. (Photos 4-6)
- boil – Bring the soup to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1 hour, stirring occasionally.
- taste test – Next, add the shredded ham to the pot. The ham is salty, so add salt and black pepper to taste. Adding a little vinegar or lemon juice to the mix will brighten the flavor. (Photos 7-8)
- serve – Add navy bean soup to a bowl and add chopped fresh parsley, a drizzle of olive oil, or a sprinkle of black pepper grinder. Please enjoy warm.


tips and tricks
- If you don’t have time to soak, wash the beans and boil for another 30-45 minutes.
- Dutch ovens and thick-bottomed pots retain heat and cook evenly.
- If you don’t get enough meat from the ham hock, add diced smoked sausage, leftover ham, or cooked bacon.
- Do you prefer thicker soups? Mash some of the beans or simmer for 10-15 minutes uncovered at the end. Do you want it thinner? Add additional stock or water and stir.
- For added nutrition, stir in a handful or two of fresh kale, spinach, or Swiss chard during the last 5 minutes.
How to prepare and store
Navy bean soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld. Therefore, prepare it a day in advance and gently reheat it before eating. Allow leftover soup to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
You can freeze them whole or in meal-sized portions in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags. Freeze for 3-4 months, leaving some room for expansion.
Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight, then heat it in a saucepan over medium heat. If it’s too thick, add water or broth 1 tablespoon at a time until it’s just right. Or heat it in the microwave in small batches until piping hot.


What goes well with navy bean soup
Complete the cozy menu with white bean soup, fresh salad and homemade bread. i always go with Shaved Brussels sprouts salad and A frying pan filled with fresh cornbread. basic Dressed salad and Garlic rolls that can be broken into pieces But it will work too!
More Sensational Flavored Soup Recipes to Try
- white bean chicken chili
- creamy vegetable soup
- lentil soup
- okra soup
- cajun corn shrimp soup
by Imma
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