This U.S. Senate Bean Soup is a rustic, satisfying dish that captures the essence of home-style cooking. Featuring tender Great Northern beans and creamy mashed potatoes, the broth is deeply flavored with smoked ham hocks, aromatic celery, onions, and garlic. The result is a thick, comforting soup with a beautiful smoky undertone and a velvety texture. It is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful meal that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, wholesome experience.
U.S. Senate Bean Soup
Description
This U.S. Senate Bean Soup is a rustic, satisfying dish that captures the essence of home-style cooking. Featuring tender Great Northern beans and creamy mashed potatoes, the broth is deeply flavored with smoked ham hocks, aromatic celery, onions, and garlic. The result is a thick, comforting soup with a beautiful smoky undertone and a velvety texture. It is perfect for chilly evenings, family dinners, or meal prepping for the week ahead. Simple ingredients come together to create a rich, flavorful meal that feels both nostalgic and nourishing. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete, wholesome experience.Ingredients
Directions
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If using dry beans, soak them overnight in water, then drain and rinse.
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In a large pot, combine the soaked beans and smoked ham hocks with enough water to cover by two inches.
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Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes.
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Remove ham hocks, shred the meat, and discard bones and skin. Return meat to the pot.
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Add chopped onions, celery, and minced garlic to the pot.
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Simmer uncovered for another 30-45 minutes until beans are tender and liquid has reduced to a soup consistency.
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Stir in the mashed potatoes until fully incorporated and the soup is thickened.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, keeping in mind the saltiness of the ham.
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Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley or chives.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 10
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 197.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 2.3g4%
- Saturated Fat 0.6g3%
- Cholesterol 24.0mg8%
- Sodium 693.8mg29%
- Total Carbohydrate 28.7g10%
- Dietary Fiber 6.9g28%
- Sugars 8.9g
- Protein 17.2g35%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For faster cooking, use canned Great Northern beans (rinsed) and add them in the last 15 minutes of cooking.
The mashed potatoes help thicken the soup naturally. If you prefer a thinner consistency, add more broth or water.
This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add smoked paprika for a similar smoky flavor.
