Scandal Boggs ┃ Fashion, Beauty & Home

Take a culinary journey to the heart of Virginia with a dish that embraces the soul-soothing comfort of ham and the humble charm of beans—Virginia Ham and Bean Soup. This recipe not only pays homage to the state’s culinary heritage but also stands as a testament to the affordability and richness of traditional family meals. Join us as we explore the steps to create this hearty and flavorful soup, a dish that brings the warmth of Virginia’s kitchens to your family’s table.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 pound Virginia ham, diced
• 8 cups chicken broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Crusty bread (optional, for serving)

Instructions:

1. Soak Beans: Rinse and soak the dried navy beans overnight in enough water to cover them.
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large soup pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
3. Add Garlic and Ham: Stir in minced garlic and diced Virginia ham. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the ham starts to brown slightly.
4. Drain and Rinse Beans: Drain and rinse the soaked navy beans, then add them to the pot with sautéed vegetables and ham.
5. Pour in Chicken Broth: Add chicken broth, bay leaf, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Simmer Until Beans are Tender: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender and the flavors are well melded.
7. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Remove the bay leaf.
8. Serve and Garnish: Ladle the Virginia Ham and Bean Soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley. Serve with crusty bread if desired.

Virginia Ham and Bean Soup is more than a dish; it’s a bowlful of Virginia comfort that brings the richness of tradition to your family’s table. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or as a heartwarming addition to your Sunday supper, this soup encapsulates the affordability and heartiness of Virginia’s culinary legacy. So, savor the tender beans, relish the savory ham, and let each spoonful transport you to the hearths of Virginia’s kitchens. Embrace the hearty homage—a delicious and affordable taste of Virginia that adds a touch of warmth to your family’s palate.