Hearty White Bean and Ham Bone Soup

Follow our step-by-step guide on how to make Hearty White Bean and Ham Bone Soup.

1. Step 1

   Begin by placing a ham bone in a large stock pot or Dutch oven, then pour in 4 quarts of water.

2. Step 2

   Bring the mixture to a vigorous boil, then cover and lower the heat to a gentle simmer.

3. Step 3

   Allow this to simmer for 10 to 12 hours, creating a deeply flavorful stock.

4. Step 4

   You can make this stock ahead of time; simply store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator or freeze it for later use.

5. Step 5

   While the stock is bubbling away, take dry great Northern beans and soak them in a large pot filled with enough water to cover them overnight.

6. Step 6

   Once they’ve soaked, drain the beans and return them to the pot.

7. Step 7

   When the ham bone has cooled enough to handle, place it on a cutting board and carefully remove any meat.

8. Step 8

   Strain the stock, reserving 3 quarts for your soup, and freeze any extra for future culinary adventures.

9. Step 9

   Next, add the reserved 3 quarts of stock to the pot with the soaked beans.

10. Step 10

    Incorporate diced ham, chopped celery, carrots, onion, and minced garlic.

11. Step 11

    Season generously with salt and black pepper.

12. Step 12

    Bring this hearty mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer.

13. Step 13

    Cover the pot, leaving the lid slightly ajar to let steam escape, and let it simmer until the beans are tender, which should take about 1.

14. Step 14

    5 to 2 hours.

15. Step 15

    In the final 30 minutes of cooking, stir in dry sherry if you choose to use it, and taste to adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed.

16. Step 16

    Serve your warm, comforting soup hot, garnished with a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a touch of color and flavor.

17. Step 17

    Enjoy the rich, savory goodness that warms both body and soul.