Name: Soup Beans: 5 Hearty Reasons to Love This Southern Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 2 h 40 min
Total time: 2 h 50 min
Cuisine: Southern
Ingredients: 1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and picked over; 8 cups water or chicken broth; 2 smoked ham hocks (or 1 large); 4 ounces smoked pork jowl, chopped; 4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped; 1 medium white onion, chopped; 1 green bell pepper, chopped; 1–2 jalapeños or Fresnos, chopped (optional); 3–4 garlic cloves, minced; 2 ribs celery, chopped; 1 bay leaf; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 1 teaspoon dried thyme; ½–1 teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste

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?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup is a classic Southern comfort dish that brings warmth and joy to any table. This hearty bowl features slow-simmered pinto beans enriched with smoky ham hocks and savory bacon, making it an ideal meal for cozy dinners and family gatherings. The rich flavors and satisfying texture will make you fall in love with this dish from the very first bite.

Why You’ll Love This ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

This dish is not just delicious; it offers numerous benefits that will keep you coming back for more. First, it’s packed with protein and fiber, making it a healthy soup option for any meal. The combination of beans and meat provides a satisfying liquid meal that fills you up without weighing you down. Additionally, it’s easy to prepare, making it an excellent choice for busy weeknights. You can even customize it to suit your taste, whether you prefer a spicy kick with jalapeños or a milder flavor. Plus, it’s gluten-free, catering to various dietary needs. With its savory taste and hearty texture, this soup will become a staple in your home.

Ingredients for ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

Gather these items:

1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and picked over
8 cups water or chicken broth
2 smoked ham hocks (or 1 large)
4 ounces smoked pork jowl, chopped
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium white onion, chopped
1 green bell pepper, chopped
1–2 jalapeños or Fresnos, chopped (optional)
3–4 garlic cloves, minced
2 ribs celery, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon dried thyme
½–1 teaspoon cayenne or red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon and pork jowl until browned.
Step 2: Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and jalapeños (if using). Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Step 3: Add pinto beans, ham hocks, bay leaf, paprika, thyme, cayenne (if using), and liquid (water or broth).
Step 4: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
Step 5: Remove ham hocks, shred meat, and return it to the pot. Discard bay leaf.
Step 6: Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot with chopped onion and hot sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

Keep these in mind:

Soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility.
Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or zucchini for extra nutrition.
This recipe is perfect for slow cooking; just set it and forget it!

Best Ways to Serve ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

When serving this dish, consider pairing it with cornbread or a side salad for a complete meal. You can also serve it with a dollop of sour cream or avocado for added creaminess. This easy homemade soup is perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to festive gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed for consistency. This dish is perfect for meal prep, as it tastes even better the next day!

Frequently Asked Questions About ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup

What’s the secret to perfect ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup?

The key to perfecting this soup is to let it simmer low and slow. This allows the flavors to develop fully and results in tender beans that absorb all the delicious seasonings. Adding smoky ingredients like ham hocks enhances the overall taste.

Can I make ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup ahead of time?

Absolutely! This soup can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator. In fact, the flavors improve as it sits, making it a fantastic option for meal prep or for serving at gatherings.

How do I avoid common mistakes with ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup?

To avoid common pitfalls, make sure to soak your beans beforehand to ensure they cook evenly. Also, be cautious with salt; wait until the end of cooking to adjust, as the ham hocks can add significant saltiness.

Variations of ?utm Source=rss&utm Medium=rss&utm Campaign=soup You Can Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe! Try adding different types of beans, such as black beans or kidney beans, for a unique twist. You can also incorporate vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. If you’re looking for a creamy texture, consider blending part of the soup for a bisque-like consistency.

For more information on the health benefits of beans, check out this Healthline article.

For a delicious cornbread recipe to pair with your soup, visit this page.

If you’re interested in slow cooking, you might enjoy this slow cooker recipe.

Lastly, for a tasty dessert option, consider making gingerbread cookies to accompany your meal.

Soup Beans: 5 Hearty Reasons to Love This Southern Delight

Author: basmer
Total Time: 2 hours 50 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

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Description

A classic Southern comfort dish, Soup Beans are slow-simmered pinto beans enriched with smoky ham hocks, bacon, and savory aromatics. Perfectly seasoned and deeply flavorful, this hearty bowl is ideal for cozy dinners and family gatherings.

Instructions

In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook bacon and pork jowl until browned.
Add chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, garlic, and jalapeños (if using). Sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened.
Add pinto beans, ham hocks, bay leaf, paprika, thyme, cayenne (if using), and liquid (water or broth).
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 2 to 2½ hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
Remove ham hocks, shred meat, and return it to the pot. Discard bay leaf.
Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serve hot with chopped onion and hot sauce.