- Canned White Beans, drained and rinsed (key ingredient)
- Vegetable Stock (helps boost flavor)
- Carrots, peeled and chopped (adds texture and color)
- Celery Stalks, sliced (essential for savory taste)
- Onion, finely chopped (great for aroma and base flavor)
- Garlic Cloves, minced (popular for enhancing overall soup)
- Bay Leaves (for depth of flavor)
- Thyme (herb that complements ham and beans well)
- Salt and Pepper (to season to taste)
- Olive Oil (optional, for sautéing vegetables)
- Fresh Parsley, chopped (for garnish and extra freshness)
Use these ingredients to create a delicious Dans Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup. This recipe is perfect for those chilly days when you want something hearty and comforting. Don't forget to adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences!
Steps
### Delicious Dans Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup Recipe
#### Introduction:
Dive into the comforting warmth of this Dans slow cooker ham and white bean soup! Perfect for a chilly evening or any time you want to enjoy a hearty, homemade meal. This recipe is packed with flavor from the ham, beans, vegetables, and aromatic herbs.
#### Ingredients List:
- 1 (2 lb) boneless pork shoulder ham, cut into chunks
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup white beans (such as cannellini), rinsed and drained
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### Steps to Make Dans Slow Cooker Ham and White Bean Soup:
1. **Preparation:**
- Begin by preparing your ingredients. Dice the ham into bite-sized pieces, roughly chop the onion, dice the carrots and celery, and mince the garlic.
2. **Setting Up Your Slow Cooker:**
- Place a large slow cooker or crockpot on low heat.
- Add 3 cups of chicken broth to the bottom of the pot.
3. **Adding Aromatics and Vegetables:**
- In the same pot, add the diced onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Mix well to ensure even distribution.
4. **Layering the Ingredients:**
- Place the ham chunks on top of the vegetable mixture.
- Pour in a can of crushed tomatoes over the ham and vegetables.
5. **Seasoning with Herbs:**
- Add 1 bay leaf, 1 teaspoon dried thyme, salt, and pepper to taste. Stir gently to combine all ingredients thoroughly.
6. **Adding Beans for Depth:**
- Rinse and drain one cup of white beans into the slow cooker.
- Cover the pot with a lid and let it cook on low heat for about 8-10 hours or until the ham is tender and the flavors have melded together.
7. **Finishing Touches:**
- Once cooked, remove the bay leaf before serving. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Garnish with fresh chopped parsley just before serving to enhance the aroma and color of your soup.
8. **Serving Suggestions:**
- Serve hot with a slice of crusty bread or over rice for an extra comforting meal.
- This soup freezes well, so you can portion out leftovers into freezer-safe containers for future meals.
#### Tips for Success:
- Ensure that the slow cooker is properly preheated to maintain consistent temperature throughout the cooking process.
- Use high-quality ingredients to maximize flavor. Fresh herbs and aromatics significantly enhance the taste of this soup.
Enjoy your Dans slow cooker ham and white bean soup, perfect for family gatherings or a cozy evening in! This recipe not only delivers on flavor but also ensures it’s easy to prepare with minimal effort.