Craving comfort food that warms both your heart and your stomach? This ham and bean stew is your answer. A delightful mix of tender ham, protein-rich beans, and aromatic vegetables come together in a savory broth, creating a dish that’s not only filling but also incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you need something to lift your spirits.
This recipe is a staple in many households, often made with leftover ham, making it a budget-friendly option that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Each spoonful is packed with rich, smoky notes from the ham and the creamy texture of the beans, ensuring a delicious experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just yourself, this ham and bean stew is versatile and can easily be scaled up or down. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs alike.
Delicious Ham and Bean Stew
This hearty ham and bean stew is a comforting dish that brings together the flavors of savory ham and protein-rich beans. The addition of vegetables adds a delightful crunch, making each spoonful satisfying and flavorful.
Simmered together in a rich broth, the combination creates a meal that envelops you in warmth. The melding of ingredients offers a fulfilling experience that’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo on a chilly day.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious stew, gather a selection of hearty ingredients. You’ll need cooked ham, both white and kidney beans, and a mix of aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. Fresh garlic enhances the flavor, while chicken broth forms the base of the dish.
Seasonings like dried thyme and bay leaves add depth, while salt and pepper allow you to adjust the taste to your liking. Having crusty bread on hand adds to the experience, perfect for dipping into the warm, bubbling stew.
Preparation Steps
The journey begins with sautéing the vegetables in olive oil until they soften. This step releases their natural flavors, setting a solid foundation for the stew.
Next, you’ll incorporate the diced ham and beans, followed by the chicken broth and seasonings. Bringing the mixture to a boil before reducing the heat allows the flavors to blend beautifully as it simmers.
Cooking Time and Serving Suggestions
This stew comes together quickly, taking approximately 50 minutes from prep to table. It offers six hearty servings, making it an ideal choice for family meals or gatherings.
Before serving, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf. Ladling the stew into bowls and pairing it with a slice of crusty bread elevates the experience, inviting you to savor every bite.
Nutrition Information
Each bowl of this stew provides a balanced meal, delivering around 320 calories along with 20 grams of protein. It’s a wholesome option that satisfies the appetite without compromising on nutrition.
The combination of beans and ham contributes to a good source of protein, alongside healthy fats and carbohydrates, making it both filling and nourishing.
Creating a Cozy Atmosphere
Presenting this stew on a rustic table setting enhances the inviting experience. The warm colors of the stew and the crusty bread create a visual feast that invites everyone to gather around.
As the stew bubbles gently, the aroma fills the air, making it hard to resist diving in. Sharing a meal like this can foster connection and conversation, turning any dinner into a cherished moment.
Delicious Ham and Bean Stew
This hearty ham and bean stew is a comforting dish made with chunks of savory ham, hearty beans, and a mix of vegetables simmered together in a rich broth. It’s a perfect blend of flavors that results in a satisfying meal, bursting with warmth and flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- 1 can (15 oz) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 can (15 oz) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté the Vegetables: In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery, and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for another minute.
- Add Ham and Beans: Add the diced ham, white beans, kidney beans, chicken broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 30-40 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve: Remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the stew into bowls and enjoy warm, with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 6 bowls
- Calories: 320kcal
- Fat: 10g
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
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