Ingredients
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2 cups cooked ham, diced
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2 cans (15 oz each) white beans or navy beans, drained and rinsed
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2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
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2 carrots, sliced
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1 small onion, finely chopped
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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6 cups chicken broth
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1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
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Salt to taste
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1 bay leaf (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the ingredients: Dice the cooked ham and potatoes, slice the carrots, and chop the onion and garlic into small pieces.
2. Load the slow cooker: Add the ham, drained beans, potatoes, carrots, onion, and garlic to the slow cooker.
3. Add the broth: Pour in the chicken broth until the ingredients are covered. Add thyme, parsley, black pepper, smoked paprika, and the bay leaf.
4. Cook slowly: Cover and cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 3–4 hours, until the potatoes and carrots are tender and the flavors have blended.
5. Make it thicker: Mash a few potatoes and beans against the side of the cooker, then stir them back into the soup. For a smoother consistency, blend a small portion and return it to the pot.
6. Taste and season: Remove the bay leaf. Taste before adding salt because ham and broth can already be salty.
7. Serve hot: Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley or black pepper. Enjoy with crusty bread, biscuits, or crackers.
Nutrition Information (Q/S)
Estimated per serving, assuming 6 servings:
| Nutrient | Approximate amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 300–380 kcal |
| Protein | 20–26 g |
| Carbohydrates | 30–40 g |
| Fat | 8–13 g |
| Fiber | 6–9 g |
| Sugar | 3–6 g |
| Sodium | 800–1,200 mg |
Nutrition note: Values vary with the type of ham, beans, broth, and portion size. Choose low-sodium broth and beans to reduce sodium.
Helpful Tips
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For extra flavor: Use a ham bone while cooking, then remove it before serving.
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For a creamier soup: Stir in ¼ cup of milk or cream near the end.
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For extra vegetables: Add celery, peas, or chopped spinach.
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Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.
Allergen information: The basic recipe can be dairy-free if prepared without butter or cream. Check broth and seasoning labels for additional allergens.