The Power of a Delicious Soup
There’s something inherently comforting about a steaming bowl of soup. It’s a classic that brings warmth and satisfaction, whether you’re craving a hearty meal during cold weather or simply seeking a comforting dish. Ham and bean soup, with its rich flavors and tender textures, is a beloved choice. This recipe takes that classic comfort to the next level by using the Instant Pot, streamlining the process and making it incredibly accessible.
The beauty of ham and bean soup lies in its simplicity. It’s a dish that truly showcases how basic ingredients, when combined with a little care, can produce an explosion of flavor. The tender beans, the smoky ham, the savory broth, and the subtle nuances of the vegetables all blend harmoniously into a culinary experience that’s both delicious and nourishing.
Why the Instant Pot is Your Soup-Making Best Friend
If you’re looking for a streamlined cooking process, the Instant Pot is the perfect appliance for this recipe. The Instant Pot has revolutionized the way we approach cooking, bringing convenience and speed to our kitchens. Forget hours spent simmering on the stovetop or waiting for the slow cooker. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve the same delicious results in a fraction of the time, making it an invaluable tool for busy weeknights.
The Instant Pot excels at making soups, specifically ham and bean soup, for a multitude of reasons. First and foremost, the Instant Pot dramatically reduces cooking time. The pressure-cooking environment tenderizes the beans quickly, eliminating the need for pre-soaking (though you have that option if you prefer). This translates to a faster path to a flavorful meal.
Then there’s the element of ease. The Instant Pot is essentially a one-pot wonder. You can sauté your aromatics, cook your soup, and even release the pressure all within the same vessel, which makes cleanup a breeze. The Instant Pot simplifies the cooking process, reducing both the active cooking time and the amount of dishes you have to wash.
Moreover, the Instant Pot enhances the flavor extraction process. The pressure-cooking environment encourages the ham and beans to release their flavors, resulting in a richer, more complex taste profile. You will be able to get much more of a flavor than you would usually obtain with other cooking methods.
Finally, the Instant Pot ensures perfectly tender beans every time. The pressure cooking gently cooks the beans, preventing them from becoming mushy or undercooked. This results in a soup that is both creamy and satisfying.
Gathering the Ingredients: What You’ll Need
To create this Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Here’s a comprehensive list:
- Dried Navy Beans (or other bean of choice): Start with around a pound of dried beans. Navy beans are a traditional choice for this soup due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, but you can also use other varieties such as great northern beans, pinto beans, or a mix.
- Ham (ham hock or cooked ham): The ham provides the smoky, savory element that is essential to the soup. You can use one ham hock (or two for extra flavor) or about a cup of diced cooked ham. If using a ham hock, it will be removed after cooking and the meat shredded.
- Onion: One medium onion, diced, adds a foundational savory flavor to the soup. Yellow onions are great here.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced, for a punch of aromatic depth.
- Broth: About eight cups of chicken broth or vegetable broth. The broth provides the liquid base for the soup and contributes to the overall flavor.
- Bay Leaf: A single bay leaf contributes a subtle but essential herbal note.
- Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and other seasonings of your choice to enhance the flavors.
- Optional Vegetables: Carrots and celery, diced, can be added for extra flavor and nutrients. Diced tomatoes can also be included.
- Optional Garnishes: Fresh parsley or green onions, a dollop of sour cream.
Crafting Your Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup: Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these simple steps to create a delicious bowl of Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup:
Preparing the Beans
This step is optional. Most people don’t soak the beans for this recipe because the Instant Pot’s pressure cooking technology can help cook even dry beans. However, if you want to soak the beans overnight for a slightly faster cooking time, do so. This method can also lead to a slightly easier digestion.
Sautéing Aromatics (if desired)
Turn your Instant Pot to the “Sauté” function. Add a tablespoon of olive oil or your preferred cooking oil. Add the diced onion and cook for a few minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about a minute until fragrant. This step adds a depth of flavor. If you’re using optional ingredients like carrots and celery, add them during this step and cook them until they start to soften.
Adding All the Ingredients
Add the rinsed beans, ham hock (if using), chicken broth or vegetable broth, bay leaf, salt, pepper, and any other desired seasonings to the Instant Pot. If using diced cooked ham, add it later.
Pressure Cooking
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the sealing valve is in the “Sealing” position. Select the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” setting. Set the cooking time for about minutes on High Pressure.
Pressure Release
Once the cooking cycle is complete, you have two options for releasing the pressure. You can allow for a natural pressure release (NPR), which can take 10-15 minutes or more. Or, you can perform a quick release (QR) by carefully turning the sealing valve to the “Venting” position. Either way is fine, but quick release will be much faster.
Shredding the Ham (if using a ham hock)
If you used a ham hock, carefully remove it from the Instant Pot after the pressure has been released. Let it cool slightly, then shred the ham, discarding any bones or excess fat.
Adjusting Seasonings and Adding Ham
Taste the soup and add more salt, pepper, or other seasonings to your liking. If you didn’t include the diced ham initially, add it now. Stir the soup.
Serving and Enjoying
Ladle the ham and bean soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and delicious meal.
Ways to Customize Your Recipe
One of the best things about ham and bean soup is its versatility. Feel free to adapt this recipe to your taste preferences:
- Vegetarian Delight: Simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a smoky flavor, or include other vegetables for extra depth.
- Spice It Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes, a dash of your favorite hot sauce, or a diced jalapeño for a spicy kick.
- Smoked Sensations: Use a smoked ham hock or add a little liquid smoke for a deeper, smoky flavor.
- Bean Variety: Experiment with different types of beans. Pinto beans or cannellini beans also work well.
- Vegetable Adventures: Feel free to add more vegetables. Diced carrots, celery, and even potatoes will make the soup richer.
- Creamy Creations: Swirl in a touch of heavy cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end to create a creamier soup.
Tips for Soup Success
Here are some essential tips to ensure your Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup turns out perfectly:
- Beans and Water Ratio: Ensure you have enough liquid to cover the beans and other ingredients in the Instant Pot.
- Burn Prevention: If the Instant Pot gives a burn notice, it might be because ingredients are sticking to the bottom. Make sure to deglaze your Instant Pot well if sauteing, or ensure there is enough liquid.
- Seasoning with Care: Season gradually and taste the soup before serving to adjust seasonings to your liking. The ham and broth will already contribute some saltiness.
- Thickening Techniques: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or immersion blender. Or, mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little cold water to form a slurry and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
- Storage Solutions: Let the soup cool completely before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep for up to four days.
- Freezing for Later: Freeze the soup in freezer-safe containers or zip-top bags for up to three months. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Serving Your Delicious Soup
A comforting bowl of ham and bean soup is delicious on its own, but adding accompaniments takes the meal to another level. Here are some ideas:
- Garnish with Freshness: A sprinkle of fresh parsley, green onions, or a dollop of sour cream adds a vibrant touch.
- Bread Pairings: Crusty bread, cornbread, or crackers are the perfect companions for dipping and scooping up every last drop of the soup.
- Beverage Bliss: Pair your soup with a crisp salad or a refreshing beverage. Consider a glass of iced tea, lemonade, or a light-bodied white wine.
Answering Your Questions: Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to common questions about Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup:
- Can I use canned beans? Yes, you can use canned beans. If using canned beans, drain and rinse them, and add them during the final few minutes of the pressure-cooking cycle (after the pressure has been released). You only need to heat them through; this reduces the cook time significantly.
- What if I don’t have an Instant Pot? While this recipe is designed for the Instant Pot, you can also make this soup on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. Follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking times accordingly.
- How can I make the soup thicker? The easiest way to thicken the soup is to mash some of the beans with a fork or an immersion blender. Alternatively, you can add a cornstarch slurry.
- Why is my soup too salty? Ham and broth can be salty, so start with less salt and add more as needed. If the soup is too salty, you can try adding more broth or a little bit of water.
- How long will the soup last in the fridge? Properly stored, ham and bean soup will last for up to four days in the refrigerator.
Conclusion: Enjoy Your Hearty Meal
You now have the perfect recipe to enjoy delicious Instant Pot Ham and Bean Soup. The recipe is sure to impress, and it comes together quickly, providing a satisfying and flavorful meal with minimal effort. Embrace the power of the Instant Pot and make a pot of this wonderful soup today. The combination of flavors, the ease of cooking, and the incredible results make this a recipe you’ll return to time and time again. So, gather your ingredients, follow the instructions, and enjoy a truly satisfying meal.
