Ham Pinto Bean Soup

Savor the smoky, southwestern flavors of this Ham and Pinto Bean Soup, a dish that brings comfort and heartiness to your table. Perfectly balanced with tender diced ham, creamy beans, and a medley of aromatic vegetables, this Tex-Mex classic is an ideal choice for a cozy family dinner or a nutritious meal prep option.

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This recipe relies on simple, wholesome ingredients to create a deep and complex flavor profile. Whether using dried beans for a traditional texture or canned beans for convenience, the result is a thick, satisfying soup that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked ham, diced (about 300 g)
• 2 cups dried pinto beans (or 3 cans, drained and rinsed)
• 1 large yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large red bell pepper, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
• 1 (14.5 oz/410 g) can diced tomatoes
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 cup water
• 1 1/2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Salt, to taste
• Garnishes (optional): Chopped fresh cilantro, lime wedges, diced avocado, shredded cheddar cheese

Instructions

Step 1

If using dried pinto beans, rinse and soak them overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse before using.

Step 2

In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened.

Step 3

Stir in the garlic and jalapeño; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the diced ham, soaked (or canned) pinto beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, water, cumin, smoked paprika, oregano, chili powder, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Stir well.

Step 5

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1 to 1 1/2 hours (or until beans are tender if using dried), stirring occasionally.

Step 6

Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt or spice as desired.

Step 7

Ladle soup into bowls and add your favorite garnishes—cilantro, lime wedges, avocado, or cheese.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture when using dried beans, ensure they are fully submerged during the soaking process. Using a heavy-bottomed Dutch oven helps maintain a steady simmer, allowing the ham and spices to infuse the beans thoroughly.

Varianten und Anpassungen

To make this dish vegetarian, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth, perhaps adding extra beans or corn for additional heartiness. You can also substitute the ham with smoked turkey or chorizo for a different smoky flavor.

Serviervorschläge

This soup pairs beautifully with warm cornbread or crispy tortilla chips. Adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice and a dollop of diced avocado just before serving provides a bright contrast to the savory, smoky broth.

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This Ham and Pinto Bean Soup is more than just a meal; it is a wholesome, flavorful experience that brings the warmth of Tex-Mex cooking straight to your kitchen. Enjoy every spoonful of this rich and satisfying dish.