Pin There is something deeply satisfying about a pot of soup that simmers low and slow, filling the kitchen with the kind of warmth that only comes from honest, wholesome ingredients. This Ham and Cannellini Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs is exactly that kind of recipe — a hearty, comforting bowl built on tender chunks of cooked ham, creamy cannellini beans, and a bright medley of fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary. With a preparation time of just 15 minutes and a gentle 45-minute simmer, it comes together in a single hour and serves six generously. Naturally gluten-free and deeply satisfying, this American classic belongs in every home cook's regular rotation.
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What makes this soup truly special is the layering of flavor at every stage. The aromatics — yellow onion, carrots, and celery — are softened first in olive oil until they turn sweet and fragrant. Garlic follows, then the diced ham, which adds a smoky, savory depth before the beans and broth are added. A bay leaf joins the pot for the long simmer, quietly infusing the broth with gentle complexity. And right at the end, fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary are stirred in, preserving their brightness and ensuring every spoonful tastes alive and vibrant. It is a soup that respects its ingredients and rewards patience.
Ingredients
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- Meats: 2 cups cooked ham, diced
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion, diced; 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced; 2 celery stalks, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Beans: 2 cans (15 oz each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
- Liquids: 6 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- Herbs & Seasonings: 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh thyme leaves, chopped; 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped; 1 bay leaf; 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper; 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
- Other: 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1 — Heat the oil
- Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
- Step 2 — Sauté the vegetables
- Add the onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.
- Step 3 — Add the garlic
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4 — Cook the ham
- Add the diced ham and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Step 5 — Add beans and broth
- Add the cannellini beans, broth, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
- Step 6 — Simmer
- Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer uncovered for 30 minutes.
- Step 7 — Add fresh herbs
- Remove the bay leaf. Stir in the parsley, thyme, and rosemary. Simmer for an additional 2–3 minutes.
- Step 8 — Season and serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra fresh herbs if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Für eine cremigere Konsistenz können Sie vor dem Servieren einige der Bohnen mit einem Löffel oder einer Gabel an der Seite des Topfes zerdrücken. Dies verdickt die Brühe auf natürliche Weise und verleiht der Suppe eine samtige Textur, ohne dass Sahne oder andere Zusätze benötigt werden. Achten Sie darauf, die frischen Kräuter erst ganz am Ende hinzuzufügen, damit ihre Aromen vollständig erhalten bleiben und nicht durch langes Kochen verloren gehen.
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Varianten und Anpassungen
Wenn Cannellini-Bohnen nicht verfügbar sind, können Sie Navy Beans oder Great Northern Beans als gleichwertigen Ersatz verwenden — beide liegen geschmacklich und in der Textur sehr nah am Original. Für eine vollständig glutenfreie Zubereitung sollten Sie sicherstellen, dass Ihre Brühe zertifiziert glutenfrei ist und die Etikettenangaben auf Dosenbohnen sorgfältig prüfen. Wer eine milchfreie Variante bevorzugt, kann dieses Rezept ohne weitere Anpassungen genießen, da es keinerlei Milchprodukte enthält.
Serviervorschläge
Diese Suppe entfaltet sich am schönsten, wenn sie heiß serviert und mit rustikalem Brot begleitet wird, das die herzhafte Brühe aufsaugen kann. Ein Glas kühler Sauvignon Blanc harmoniert hervorragend mit den frischen Kräutern und der milden Salzigkeit des Schinkens. Für eine besonders einladende Präsentation können Sie die Schüsseln vor dem Servieren mit zusätzlich gehackter frischer Petersilie oder einem kleinen Zweig Rosmarin garnieren.
Pin Ham and Cannellini Bean Soup with Fresh Herbs is the kind of recipe that becomes a household staple — easy enough for a busy weeknight, satisfying enough for a Sunday gathering, and flexible enough to adapt to what you have on hand. At 285 calories per serving with 22 grams of protein and 30 grams of carbohydrates, it nourishes as well as it comforts. Whether you are ladling it into wide bowls alongside thick slices of crusty bread or packing it into containers for the week ahead, this soup delivers warmth, flavor, and wholesome goodness in every single spoonful.
Recipe Questions & Answers
- → Can I substitute navy beans for cannellini beans?
Yes, navy beans or Great Northern beans can be used as alternatives while maintaining a similar creamy texture.
- → How can I make the soup thicker?
Mash some of the beans against the pot’s side before serving to create a creamier texture.
- → What herbs complement the flavor best?
Fresh parsley, thyme, and rosemary provide vibrant herbal notes that balance the rich ham and beans.
- → Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, as long as the broth used is certified gluten-free, this soup is appropriate for gluten-free diets.
- → What is the best way to store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently on the stove.
