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### Ingredients
* 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
* 1 medium onion, diced
* 2 cloves garlic, minced
* 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
* 2 celery stalks, chopped
* 1 meaty ham bone (or 2 cups cooked ham, chopped)
* 1 bay leaf
* 1 teaspoon dried thyme
* 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
* 2 cans (15 oz each) white beans (cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
* Salt and black pepper, to taste
* Optional: fresh parsley for garnish, a squeeze of lemon for brightness
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### How to Make Ham and Bean Soup
1. **Sauté the Aromatics:**
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery, and cook for 5–7 minutes, until softened. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
2. **Add Ham and Seasonings:**
Stir in the ham bone (or chopped ham), thyme, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
3. **Simmer:**
Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 45 minutes to an hour. If you’re using a ham bone, this allows the meat to fall off and enrich the broth.
4. **Add the Beans:**
Stir in the white beans and simmer for another 15–20 minutes. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of water or broth. Remove the ham bone, shred any meat and return it to the pot.
5. **Season and Serve:**
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Remove bay leaf before serving. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or a splash of lemon juice if desired.
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### Tips & Variations
* **No ham bone?** No problem. Use diced smoked ham or ham hocks.
* **Make it smoky:** Add a pinch of smoked paprika or use smoked sausage for extra depth.
* **Creamy twist:** Puree part of the soup with an immersion blender for a thicker texture.
* **Slow cooker version:** Add everything to your slow cooker and cook on low for 6–8 hours.
* **Freezer-friendly:** Cool completely and freeze in individual portions for easy future meals.
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### A Bowl Full of Comfort
Whether it’s the day after a holiday feast or a regular weeknight, **Ham and Bean Soup** is one of those recipes that always hits the spot. It’s warm, nutritious, and full of flavor — the kind of meal that brings people together around the table. Pair it with crusty bread or cornbread for the ultimate cozy combo.
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Would you like me to add a printable recipe card or variations for different dietary needs? I’d be happy to help!
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