White bean and ham soup

Ingredients :

• 1 lb dried white beans (such as Great Northern or cannellini)
• 1 ham hock or 2 cups diced ham
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 1 tsp dried rosemary (optional)
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil Instructions:

1. Prepare Beans:

• Rinse and soak the dried beans in water overnight or use the quick-soak method (boil beans for 2 minutes, then let sit for 1 hour). Drain and rinse before using.

1. Cook Vegetables:

• In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

1. Add Ham and Beans:

• Stir in the ham hock or diced ham, drained beans, bay leaf, thyme, and rosemary if using.

1. Add Broth:

• Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring the mixture to a boil.

1. Simmer:

• Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. If using a ham hock, remove it when the beans are tender, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.

1. Season:

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

1. Serve:

• Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Enjoy your homemade white bean and ham soup!