Ham &Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, sliced
• 2 celery stalks, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups cooked ham, diced
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 3 cups water
• 2 cans (15 oz each) great northern beans or cannellini beans, rinsed and drained
• 1 bay leaf
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Sauté the Vegetables
   Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-7 minutes until softened. Stir in garlic and cook for another minute.
2. Add Ham and Seasonings
   Stir in diced ham, thyme, and smoked paprika. Cook for 2-3 minutes to combine the flavors.
3. Add Liquids and Beans
   Pour in chicken broth, water, and beans. Add the bay leaf. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
4. Simmer the Soup
   Cover and cook for 25-30 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Season and Serve
   Remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley.

Tips

• Add a smoky depth of flavor with a leftover ham bone or ham hock.
• For extra heartiness, add a handful of diced potatoes or a cup of chopped kale.