Slow Cooker Navy Bean Soup With Ham

For extra flavor, saute the onions and ham before adding them to the crock pot.

Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or balsamic vinegar to brighten the flavor of the soup.

If the soup is too thick, add a bit of water or broth to reach your desired consistency.

How do I properly rinse and pick over dried beans?

To rinse and pick over dried beans, place them in a colander and rinse under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Then, spread the beans out on a baking sheet or clean countertop and pick out any discolored beans, stones, or debris.

Why do I need to soak the navy beans overnight?

Soaking the navy beans overnight helps to reduce their cooking time and can also aid in digestion by reducing the gas-producing properties of the beans.

Can I skip the soaking step and cook the beans directly in the soup?

While it is possible to skip the soaking step and cook the beans directly in the soup, it will significantly increase the cooking time and may result in unevenly cooked beans.

What can I use instead of smoked ham?

If you prefer a different type of meat, you can substitute smoked ham with bacon, sausage, or even smoked turkey. You can also omit the ham.

Can I use chicken broth instead of water and bouillon cubes?

You can substitute water and bouillon cubes with broth for a richer flavor.

Can I add other vegetables or herbs to the soup?

You can add other vegetables like carrots, celery, or potatoes, as well as herbs like thyme, parsley, or bay leaves to enhance the flavor of the soup.

How should I store and reheat the leftover navy bean soup?

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container and refrigerating it. To reheat, gently warm the soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

Can I freeze the navy bean soup?

You can freeze the navy bean soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Crock Pot or Slow Cooker: To cook the navy bean soup with ham over a long period of time, allowing the flavors to meld together and the beans to become tender.

Large Pan or Bowl: For soaking the dried navy beans in water overnight, allowing them to soften and expand before cooking.

Knife: To cube the smoked ham and dice the onion before adding them to the soup mixture.

Measuring Cup: For accurately measuring out the water, ham, and onions.

Grilled Cheese Sandwich: the savory and smoky flavors of the ham will perfectly complement the gooey goodness of a grilled cheese sandwich.

Cornbread: the hearty navy bean soup with ham needs a sturdy sidekick like cornbread to soak up all that delicious broth.

Garlic Bread: the garlic kick from the bread will add an extra layer of flavor to the navy bean soup with ham. Plus, who can resist dipping some crispy garlic bread in a steaming bowl of soup?

Mixed Green Salad: balance out the rich flavors of the navy bean soup with ham with a light and refreshing mixed green salad.

Cheddar Biscuits: the sharp cheddar biscuits will add a cheesy twist to the navy bean soup with ham.

Wine Pairings
Chardonnay: A nice, oaky Chardonnay can bring out the richness of the ham in this comforting soup. Look for one with buttery notes to add a luxurious touch to your meal.

Merlot: The fruity notes of a Merlot can complement the savory ham and add a touch of sweetness to balance out the flavors in this navy bean soup. Opt for a fruit-forward Merlot for a delightful pairing.

Pinot Grigio: If you prefer a lighter wine, a crisp Pinot Grigio can be a refreshing choice to sip alongside this hearty soup. Its citrusy flavors can cut through the richness of the ham and beans.

Other Alcohol Pairings
Brown Ale: The nutty and caramel flavors in a brown ale can harmonize with the smoky notes of the ham in this navy bean soup. The maltiness of the beer can also add a depth of flavor to your meal.

Whiskey: Whether you prefer bourbon or rye, a nice glass of whiskey can be a warming companion to your bowl of soup. The smoky, woody notes in the whiskey can enhance the flavors of the ham and beans.

Hard Cider: A crisp, refreshing hard cider can provide a nice contrast to the savory flavors of the navy bean soup.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings
Lemonade: A glass of tangy lemonade can add a burst of freshness to your meal. The acidity in the lemonade can cut through the richness of the ham and beans.

Hot Apple Cider: Want to warm up from the inside out? A steaming mug of hot apple cider can be the perfect companion to your bowl of navy bean soup. The spices in the cider can enhance the flavors of the soup.

Vanilla Almond Milk: For a creamy and dairy-free option, try a glass of vanilla almond milk. The subtle sweetness of the almond milk can balance out the savory flavors of the ham and beans.