What Makes Ham And Bean Soup Thicken?

What Makes Ham and Bean Soup Thicken?

Ham and bean soup is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by people of all ages. It is a hearty and filling soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. But what makes ham and bean soup thicken? There are a few different factors that contribute to the thickness of ham and bean soup.

The Beans

The type of beans that you use will affect the thickness of your soup. Beans that are higher in starch will produce a thicker soup. Some good choices for thickening ham and bean soup include navy beans, great northern beans, and pinto beans.

The Ham

The amount of ham that you use will also affect the thickness of your soup. If you want a thicker soup, use more ham. You can also use a ham bone to add flavor and thickness to your soup.

The Other Ingredients

The other ingredients that you add to your ham and bean soup will also affect its thickness. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions will all add bulk to your soup and make it thicker. You can also add thickening agents such as flour or cornstarch to your soup.

How to Thicken Ham and Bean Soup

If you find that your ham and bean soup is too thin, there are a few things that you can do to thicken it.

• Add more beans. This is the simplest way to thicken your soup. Just add a few more cans of beans to the pot and let them simmer until they are heated through.
• Add more ham. Another way to thicken your soup is to add more ham. You can use cooked ham, diced ham, or even ham bone.
• Add vegetables. Vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions will all add bulk to your soup and make it thicker. Just chop the vegetables and add them to the pot.
• Add thickening agents. If you want to thicken your soup quickly, you can add a thickening agent such as flour or cornstarch. Just whisk the thickening agent into a small amount of water until it is smooth and then add it to the soup.

Tips for Making the Best Ham and Bean Soup

Here are a few tips for making the best ham and bean soup:

• Use high-quality ingredients. The better the ingredients that you use, the better your soup will be.
• Don’t overcook the beans. Overcooked beans will become mushy and ruin the texture of your soup.
• Simmer the soup for a long time. The longer you simmer the soup, the more flavorful it will become.
• Add your favorite toppings. Ham and bean soup is a blank canvas that you can customize to your liking. Add your favorite toppings such as sour cream, shredded cheese, or diced onions.

Conclusion

Ham and bean soup is a delicious and hearty soup that is perfect for a cold winter day. By following these tips, you can make the best ham and bean soup that you have ever tasted.

Questions and Answers

1. What is the best type of bean to use for thickening ham and bean soup?
   • Navy beans, great northern beans, and pinto beans are all good choices.
2. How do I add more flavor to my ham and bean soup?
   • You can add a ham bone, diced ham, or cooked ham.
3. What are some good toppings for ham and bean soup?
   • Sour cream, shredded cheese, and diced onions are all good choices.
4. How long should I simmer my ham and bean soup?
   • The longer you simmer the soup, the more flavorful it will become.
5. Can I freeze ham and bean soup?
   • Yes, you can freeze ham and bean soup for up to 3 months.