Are you craving a hearty, comforting soup but short on time? Look no further than the Instant Pot! This magical appliance transforms humble ingredients into a delicious ham bean soup in a fraction of the time it would take on the stovetop. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a flavorful meal without spending hours in the kitchen. We'll explore everything from variations to tips and tricks to make this your go-to Instant Pot recipe.
What Makes Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup So Great?
The Instant Pot's pressure cooking capabilities tenderize the beans perfectly, resulting in a creamy, flavorful soup without the need for pre-soaking. This method saves you significant time and effort compared to traditional stovetop methods. The result? A deeply satisfying soup bursting with the savory essence of ham and the hearty texture of beans. Plus, cleanup is a breeze!
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 lb ham bone (or about 2 cups chopped ham)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can great northern beans, rinsed and drained (or 1.5 cups dried great northern beans, soaked overnight)
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2 tsp dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 bay leaf, fresh parsley for garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Sauté the vegetables: Set your Instant Pot to the "Sauté" function. Add olive oil, then add the onion, carrots, and celery. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add remaining ingredients: Add the ham bone (or chopped ham), diced tomatoes, beans, chicken broth, thyme, rosemary, salt, pepper, and bay leaf (if using) to the Instant Pot. Stir to combine.
- Pressure cook: Secure the lid and set the valve to "Sealing." Cook on high pressure for 20 minutes (for dried beans, cook for 35-40 minutes). Allow for a natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully quick release any remaining pressure.
- Shred the ham: Remove the ham bone (if using) and shred the meat. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired.
How Long Does Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup Last?
Properly stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, your Instant Pot ham bean soup will last for 3-4 days. It also freezes well; simply allow it to cool completely before storing in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
Can I Use Different Types of Beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Feel free to experiment with other beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or black beans. Keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly depending on the type of bean used. For dried beans, always check the package instructions for recommended cooking times.
Is This Recipe Healthy?
This ham bean soup is a relatively healthy option, packed with protein and fiber from the beans and ham. The vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals. To make it even healthier, you can reduce the amount of salt and use low-sodium chicken broth.
What Can I Add to My Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup?
Get creative! Consider adding other vegetables like potatoes, corn, or spinach. A splash of Worcestershire sauce or a dash of hot sauce can add extra depth of flavor. You can also experiment with different herbs and spices to personalize your soup.
Tips for the Best Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup:
- Don't overcook the beans: Overcooked beans can become mushy. Follow the cooking times closely, and adjust based on the type of bean used.
- Season to taste: Adjust the salt and pepper to your preference. Taste the soup before serving and add more seasoning if needed.
- Use a good quality ham: The flavor of the ham will significantly impact the overall taste of the soup.
- Garnish generously: Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness.
This Instant Pot Ham Bean Soup recipe is a delicious and convenient way to enjoy a classic comfort food. With its ease of preparation and customizable nature, it's sure to become a staple in your kitchen!
