Butterbean and Ham Soup

Butterbean and ham soup is a hearty and flavorful soup that is popular in the southern United States. It is typically made with dried butterbeans (also known as lima beans), ham hocks, onions, celery, carrots, and a variety of herbs and spices.

To make the soup, the dried beans are soaked overnight and then simmered with the ham hocks until they are tender and flavorful. The vegetables are then added to the pot and cooked until they are tender as well. The ham hocks are removed from the soup, and the meat is shredded and added back to the pot. The soup is seasoned with salt, pepper, and other herbs and spices to taste.

Butterbean and ham soup is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for cool weather. It is often served with cornbread or crusty bread on the side, and leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator or freezer for later enjoyment.

SERVINGS: 4

PREPARATION TIME: 30 minutes

INGREDIENTS:

• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 2 large carrots, diced
• 2 stalks of celery, diced
• 1 ham hock
• 1 cup of dried butterbeans, soaked overnight and drained
• 4 cups of chicken broth
• 1 cup of water
• 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste

STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ham hock, butterbeans, chicken broth, water, and thyme to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the butterbeans are tender.
4. Remove the ham hock from the pot and allow to cool. Remove the meat from the bone and chop it into small pieces. Return the meat to the pot.
5. Season the soup with salt and pepper, to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

SERVING SUGGESTIONS OR ADDITIONAL TIPS:

• Serve with crusty bread or crackers.
• You can also add diced potatoes or kale to the soup for added texture and flavor.
• If you prefer a thicker soup, you can puree part of the soup with an immersion blender or transfer to a blender and puree until smooth.