Calico Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Introduction

At Love With Recipes, we believe in celebrating the comforting, nourishing power of homemade soups, and this Calico Ham and Bean Soup exemplifies everything that makes hearty, home-cooked meals so special. Combining a vibrant medley of beans with smoky ham and aromatic herbs, this dish offers a rich, satisfying flavor profile that appeals to a wide array of palates. Its slow-cooked nature ensures deep flavor infusion, making it an ideal choice for busy weekdays or leisurely weekends when you want to indulge in a meal that feels like a warm hug from the inside out. This soup is not only a testament to the simplicity of good ingredients coming together but also a versatile recipe that can be customized to your taste preferences, dietary needs, or ingredient availability. Whether you’re cooking for a family gathering or meal prepping for the week, this recipe delivers comfort, nutrition, and a touch of Southern charm in every spoonful.

Time

The total time required to prepare and cook this hearty ham and bean soup is approximately 8 hours and 35 minutes. The process involves a prep time of about 25 minutes, during which you’ll sort and rinse the beans, chop vegetables, and prepare the ingredients. The actual cooking time in the crockpot spans about 8 to 10 hours on low or 4 to 5 hours on high, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and the beans to become tender. This extended cooking period is essential for developing the depth of flavor and ensuring that the beans reach their optimal texture, making this recipe perfect for make-ahead meals or slow-cooker enthusiasts.

Needed Equipment

• Large mixing or prep bowls
• Fine-mesh strainer or colander
• Large saucepan or pot for initial bean cooking
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Peeler (optional, for carrots)
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Crockpot or slow cooker with lid
• Soup ladle
• Kitchen tongs or slotted spoon (for removing bay leaves)
• Serving bowls and spoons

Tags

Comfort Food, Hearty Soup, Slow Cooker, Budget-Friendly, Family Dinner, Nutritious, Easy to Make, Make-Ahead, Freezer Friendly, Gluten-Free (if gluten-free beans used), High-Protein, Vegetarian Option (by omitting ham)

Serving Size

This recipe yields approximately 8 generous servings, making it perfect for family dinners, meal prep, or sharing with friends. Each bowl provides a well-rounded portion that is both filling and nourishing, with ample protein, fiber, and flavor.

Difficulty Level

This recipe is considered easy to prepare, suitable for beginner cooks and busy households. The most involved step is the initial bean preparation, but overall, the slow-cooker method simplifies the process, requiring minimal active cooking time once the ingredients are assembled.

Allergen Information

• Contains: Beans (legumes), Ham (pork), Onion, Carrot
• Potential allergens: None explicitly, but always check labels for processed ingredients or pre-packaged beans for cross-contamination if you have allergies.

Dietary Preference

This recipe is adaptable for various dietary preferences. It is naturally gluten-free if gluten-free beans are used, and it can be modified to be vegetarian by omitting ham or replacing it with smoked paprika or liquid smoke for smoky flavor. It is also suitable for low-fat diets if lean ham is chosen and oils are minimized.

Course

Main Course, Soup, Comfort Food

Cuisine

Southern American, Homestyle, Comfort Food

Ingredients in Tables

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans

Begin by sorting through all dried beans to remove any debris, stones, or damaged beans. This step ensures that only quality beans are used, which is crucial for the best flavor and texture. Rinse each type thoroughly under cold running water using a fine-mesh strainer or colander. After rinsing, drain completely and set aside. This initial preparation can be done a day ahead to save time on the day of cooking, or in the morning if you plan to cook later in the day.

2. Initial Bean Cooking

In a large saucepan or pot, combine the sorted and rinsed beans with 6 cups of water. Bring the mixture to a rolling boil over high heat, which should take approximately 10 minutes. Boiling helps to remove any residual dirt or anti-nutritional factors that might be present in dried beans, and it also begins the process of softening the beans. Once boiling is achieved, drain the beans in a colander and rinse thoroughly under cold water to halt the cooking process and wash away any potential impurities or foam formed during boiling.

3. Transfer to Crockpot and Add Ingredients

Transfer the drained beans into your crockpot or slow cooker. Add the diced ham, chopped onion, chopped carrot, dried basil, dried oregano, salt, and bay leaves. Pour in the remaining 6 cups of water, ensuring that all ingredients are submerged adequately. Stir gently to combine everything evenly. This step is crucial because it distributes the herbs and seasonings throughout the beans and ham, ensuring every spoonful is bursting with flavor.

4. Slow Cooking for Maximum Flavor

Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for about 8 to 10 hours. Alternatively, for a quicker process, set it to high for approximately 4 to 5 hours. During this slow cooking process, the beans absorb the flavors of the ham and herbs, becoming tender and flavorful. The low-and-slow method is preferred for achieving the best texture and depth of flavor, but the high setting is a good option if you’re short on time. Do not lift the lid during cooking unless necessary, as this releases valuable heat and slows down the cooking process.

5. Final Adjustments and Serving

Once the cooking time has elapsed, carefully remove the bay leaves using tongs or a slotted spoon—they are not edible and should be discarded. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. For a richer aroma, sprinkle some freshly chopped herbs on top or add a dash of hot sauce for a spicy kick. Ladle the soup into individual bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of beans, ham, and vegetables. Serve hot, accompanied by crusty bread or cornbread for a complete, comforting meal.

Preparation Tips

• Bean selection: Feel free to customize the bean mixture based on what you have available or your personal preferences. Lentils, pinto beans, or cannellini beans can be excellent substitutes or additions.
• Ham options: For a smoky flavor, use smoked ham hocks or add a splash of smoked paprika or liquid smoke during cooking. Leftover ham from holiday dinners works perfectly.
• Vegetable variations: Incorporate celery, bell peppers, or garlic to enhance the flavor profile further.
• Vegetarian adaptation: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water, adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic smoky flavors.
• Bean soaking: If you prefer a quicker cooking process, soak the dried beans overnight in water, then drain and proceed with the initial boiling step. This reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.

Nutritional Information

Tips and Tricks

• Enhance flavor: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
• Thicken the soup: For a creamier texture, blend a cup of the soup (excluding the ham and bay leaves) until smooth and stir back into the pot.
• Meal prep: Cook the beans and freeze in individual portions for quick, nutritious meals later.
• Storage: Store leftovers in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Add-ons and Variations

• Vegetables: Add chopped celery, bell peppers, or spinach during the last hour of cooking for added nutrition.
• Spicy kick: Incorporate diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Cheese topping: Garnish with shredded cheese such as cheddar or Monterey Jack for extra richness.
• Herb garnish: Fresh chopped parsley or cilantro can elevate the dish with fresh flavors.

Side Dishes

• Crusty French bread or cornbread to soak up the soup.
• Simple green salad with vinaigrette for a light complement.
• Roasted vegetables or sautéed greens for added nutrition.
• Pickles or fermented vegetables to contrast the richness.

Improvements

For an even deeper flavor, consider roasting the ham and vegetables before adding them to the crockpot. Additionally, adding a smoked ham hock during cooking can impart an authentic smoky depth. Incorporating a splash of Worcestershire sauce or soy sauce can add umami richness. Experimenting with different bean combinations or adding a pinch of smoked paprika can further customize the flavor profile to your liking.

Save and Store

This soup refrigerates well for up to 4 days in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator or defrost in the microwave, then warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. For best results, reheat gently to preserve the texture of the beans and the flavor of the ham.

FAQ

Can I make this soup vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. To add smoky flavor, include smoked paprika or a few drops of liquid smoke. You may also add more vegetables like smoked tomatoes, bell peppers, or mushrooms for depth.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Absolutely. Use about 3 cups of drained and rinsed canned beans, reducing the cooking time significantly. Add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking and mushiness.

How can I reduce the sodium content?

Use low-sodium or no-salt-added beans and ham, and adjust salt levels to taste. Rinse canned beans thoroughly if using, and omit additional salt during cooking.

Is this soup suitable for gluten-free diets?

Yes, if using gluten-free beans and avoiding any added gluten-containing ingredients. Always check labels to ensure all ingredients are gluten-free.

Conclusion

This Calico Ham and Bean Soup is a true embodiment of comfort, versatility, and nourishing goodness. The slow-cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying dish that can be enjoyed year-round. Its adaptability makes it suitable for various dietary needs and flavor preferences, while its straightforward preparation ensures it remains accessible to home cooks of all levels. Whether served as a main course with crusty bread or as part of a larger meal, this soup promises warmth and satisfaction in every spoonful. As with all recipes on Love With Recipes, this dish is designed to bring joy, nourishment, and a touch of culinary creativity to your table.

References

Sources include traditional Southern cooking techniques and flavor profiles, as well as modern slow-cooker recipes from trusted culinary websites. For additional inspiration, see “The Complete Book of Soups” by Bernard Clayton and “The Great Big Pressure Cooker Book” by Bruce Weinstein (both referenced for slow-cooking and flavor development strategies).