This soup is the real deal – complete with protein from the beans and ham, a blend of veggies for a mixture of nutrients and benefits, and enhanced with phytonutrient-rich fresh herbs. It’s flavorful, and takes care of all the body’s needs in one meal. The easy-to-access energy found in the beans and potatoes means you get to satisfy your hunger, and have a slow release of complex carbs that are naturally rich in fiber. Because it’s a whole food, with skin and all, it provides a steady energy supply without spiking the blood sugar. This balancing effect is enhanced with the chard and the celery. All the nutrients found in this soup will allow you to feel satisfied and reduce after meal cravings. A comfort meal of the best possible kind!
Italian White Bean Soup with Smoked Ham from Tuscany
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 60 minutes
Serves: 4-6
Italian White Bean Soup with Smoked Ham from Tuscany
- Prep time: 10 minutes
- Cook time: 60 minutes
- Serves: 4-6
Ingredients
For Soup
- 6 oz Smoked ham, off the bone and small diced
- 2 tbs Olive oil
- 1 cup Onion, diced
- to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup potatoes, diced
- 2 cup Carrot, diced
- 2 cup Celery, thinly sliced
- 2 clove Garlic,minced
- ¼ bu Parsley, minced
- 1 tbs Dried oregano, basil, or thyme
- 6 cup Vegetable stock
- 2 cup Cannellini beans
- 2 cup Water (as needed)
For Basil Topper
- ¼ bu Fresh basil
- 2 tbs Olive oil
- to taste Salt and pepper
Instructions
- 1)
Heat the olive oil in a heavy bottomed pot over medium high heat. Add the diced ham and sear until browned (about 3mins).
- 2)
Add the onion, season with salt and pepper, and saute for another 5-8 minutes.
- 3)
Add the chopped carrots, celery, potatoes and finely chopped garlic.
- 4)
Add the parsley and dried herbs and continue to saute while stirring for 2-3 minutes.
- 5)
Add the stock and beans, and bring to a boil.
- 6)
(Throw in the ham hock or bone for extra flavor, if you have it.)
- 7)
Lower the heat, cover, and allow the soup to simmer for 60-120 minutes.
- 8)
Stir occasionally. Add extra water if required.
- 9)
For the basil topper: using a mortar and pestle, or food processor, blend the olive oil & basil. Season to taste.
- 10)
To serve: Ladle soup into bowls and drizzle with the basil oil.
Notes
~This soup gets better and better as the flavors marry over a few days!
