Ham Kale White Bean Soup

This Ham and Kale White Bean Soup is the ultimate cold-weather comfort food. A hearty, nourishing winter soup featuring tender diced ham, creamy cannellini beans, and vibrant kale simmered in a flavorful chicken broth, it provides a healthy and satisfying dinner for the whole family.

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With a total cooking time of 40 minutes, this recipe transforms simple pantry staples like canned beans and chicken broth into a rich, savory meal. The addition of smoked paprika and dried thyme adds depth to the broth, while the fresh vegetables ensure every spoonful is packed with nutrition.

Ingredients

• Meats: 1 lb (450 g) cooked ham, diced
• Vegetables: 1 large yellow onion, diced; 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced; 2 celery stalks, sliced; 4 cups (120 g) chopped kale, stems removed; 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Beans & Legumes: 2 cans (15 oz/425 g each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
• Liquids: 6 cups (1.5 L) low-sodium chicken broth; 1 cup (240 ml) water
• Herbs & Spices: 1 bay leaf; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional); Salt, to taste
• Oils: 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

Step 1

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.

Step 2

Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 3

Stir in diced ham and cook for 2 minutes.

Step 4

Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Bring to a boil.

Step 5

Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.

Step 6

Add chopped kale. Simmer uncovered for another 8-10 minutes, or until kale is tender and flavors meld.

Step 7

Taste and season with salt as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Always check your broth and canned bean labels to ensure they are gluten-free and do not contain hidden additives. Rinsing the beans thoroughly before adding them to the pot helps control the sodium levels and results in a cleaner broth.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth, adding extra beans or mushrooms for heartiness. If you prefer a different protein, smoked turkey or sausage can easily be substituted for the diced ham.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this soup hot with a side of crusty whole-grain bread for a complete meal. For an extra touch of brightness, add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice to each bowl immediately before serving.

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This easy American-style soup is a reliable staple for anyone looking for a healthy, comforting dinner. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or serving a hungry family, this ham and kale white bean soup is sure to become a cold-weather favorite.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of beans are used in this dish?

Cannellini beans are used for their creamy texture and mild flavor, which complement the other ingredients well.

→ Can I substitute the ham in this meal?

Yes, smoked turkey or sausage can be used as alternatives to add a different smoky flavor.

→ How do I ensure the kale stays tender but not mushy?

Add the kale towards the last 8-10 minutes of cooking and simmer uncovered to maintain its texture and color.

→ What herbs enhance the flavor of this dish?

Bay leaf, dried thyme, and a touch of smoked paprika provide aromatic depth to the broth.

→ Is there a way to lighten this dish further?

Using vegetable broth and omitting the ham creates a lighter, vegetarian-friendly version.