How To Thicken Ham And Navy Bean Soup?

How to Thicken Ham and Navy Bean Soup

Ham and navy bean soup is a hearty and delicious meal that can be enjoyed any time of year. However, if you find that your soup is too thin, there are a few simple ways to thicken it up.

Ways to Thicken Ham and Navy Bean Soup

1. Mash Some of the Beans

One of the easiest ways to thicken soup is to mash some of the beans. This can be done with a potato masher or a fork. Simply mash until the beans are broken down and the soup has thickened to your desired consistency.

2. Add Some Cornstarch

Cornstarch is a common thickener that can be used in soups, sauces, and gravies. To use cornstarch to thicken your soup, make a slurry by mixing 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water. Stir the slurry into the soup and bring to a boil. The soup will thicken as it boils.

3. Add Some Flour

Flour is another common thickener that can be used in soups. To use flour to thicken your soup, make a roux by whisking together 1 tablespoon of flour with 1 tablespoon of butter. Cook the roux over medium heat until it is golden brown. Gradually whisk the roux into the soup and bring to a boil. The soup will thicken as it boils.

4. Add Some Instant Potato Flakes

Instant potato flakes are a quick and easy way to thicken soup. Simply add 1/4 cup of instant potato flakes to the soup and stir until dissolved. The soup will thicken as it cooks.

5. Add Vegetables

Vegetables can also be used to thicken soup. Adding diced carrots, celery, or onions to your soup will help to thicken it up. The vegetables will also add extra flavor and nutrition to your soup.

6. Reduce the Soup

If you have time, you can also reduce the soup to thicken it. Simply simmer the soup uncovered over low heat until it has reduced to your desired consistency. This method will take longer, but it will also result in a more flavorful soup.

Tips for Thickening Ham and Navy Bean Soup

• If you are using cornstarch to thicken your soup, be sure to add it slowly and whisk constantly. This will help to prevent the cornstarch from clumping.
• If you are using flour to thicken your soup, be sure to cook the roux until it is golden brown. This will help to give the soup a richer flavor.
• If you are using vegetables to thicken your soup, be sure to cut them into small pieces. This will help them to cook quickly and evenly.
• If you are reducing the soup to thicken it, be sure to watch it carefully so that it does not scorch.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How do I know when my soup is thick enough?

The soup is thick enough when it coats the back of a spoon.

2. What if my soup is still too thin after I have added thickeners?

You can add more thickeners until the soup reaches your desired consistency.

3. Can I thicken soup with rice?

Yes, you can thicken soup with rice. Simply cook the rice according to the package directions and add it to the soup. The rice will absorb some of the liquid and help to thicken the soup.

4. Can I thicken soup with bread?

Yes, you can thicken soup with bread. Simply tear the bread into small pieces and add it to the soup. The bread will absorb some of the liquid and help to thicken the soup.

5. Can I thicken soup with pasta?

Yes, you can thicken soup with pasta. Simply cook the pasta according to the package directions and add it to the soup. The pasta will absorb some of the liquid and help to thicken the soup.