Black Beans And Ham Soup

Nothing beats a warm bowl of soup on a chilly day, especially when it’s hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. Black Beans and Ham Soup is a classic dish that combines the richness of ham with the earthy flavors of black beans, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. This recipe will guide you through the simple steps to create a delicious pot of soup that will warm you up from the inside out.

**Black Beans and Ham Soup**

**Ingredients:**
– 1 lb dried black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 ham hock or ham bone
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 carrots, peeled and chopped
– 2 celery stalks, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 6 cups chicken broth
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, for garnish

**Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Beans:** In a large pot, cover the black beans with water and let them soak overnight. Drain and rinse the beans the next day.

2. **Cook the Ham:** Place the ham hock or ham bone in the pot with the beans. Add enough water to cover the ham, and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and simmer for about 1 hour, until the ham is tender.

3. **Add Vegetables:** Add the diced onion, chopped carrots, celery, and minced garlic to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine.

4. **Season the Soup:** Sprinkle in the cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly throughout the soup.

5. **Simmer:** Bring the soup to a simmer over medium heat. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.

6. **Shred the Ham:** Remove the ham hock or bone from the pot. Shred the ham meat and discard any bones or excess fat. Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to combine.

7. **Adjust Seasoning:** Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.

8. **Serve:** Ladle the hot Black Beans and Ham Soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.

9. **Enjoy:** Serve the soup with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete and satisfying meal. This soup also freezes well, so you can make a big batch and save some for later.

Warm, comforting, and full of flavor, this Black Beans and Ham Soup is a must-try for soup lovers looking for a wholesome and delicious meal. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can create a nourishing pot of soup that will fill your home with inviting aromas and bring everyone to the table for a cozy meal. So, next time you’re craving a comforting bowl of soup, give this recipe a try and savor the warmth and goodness it brings.