This Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for warming up on a chilly day. The combination of tender smoked ham, creamy white beans, and soft potatoes creates a satisfying and comforting meal. The addition of fresh thyme and a parmesan rind infuses the broth with rich, savory notes, while the chopped cabbage adds a subtle sweetness and texture.
Not only is this stew delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful broth. This recipe is sure to become a family favorite, offering warmth and comfort in every bowl.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 cups green cabbage, chopped
- 2 cans (15 ounces each) white beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 smoked ham shank or hock
- 1 parmesan rind (optional)
- 4 sprigs fresh thyme
- 6 cups chicken stock
- 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Directions:
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and diced celery; sauté until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic, chopped cabbage, and white beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Place the smoked ham shank or hock into the pot, along with the parmesan rind (if using) and fresh thyme sprigs. Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 30 minutes to infuse the broth with rich flavors.
- After 30 minutes, add the diced potatoes to the pot. Continue to simmer until the potatoes are tender, approximately 15-20 minutes.
- For a thicker consistency, transfer 1-2 cups of the soup (including both solids and liquid) to a blender. Pulse until mostly smooth, then return the puréed mixture to the pot and stir to combine.
- Remove the ham shank or hock from the pot and set it aside until cool enough to handle. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, discarding any skin, bones, and excess fat. Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to incorporate.
- Season the stew with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.
Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 1 hour | Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
Kcal: 350 kcal | Servings: 6 servings
The Key Ingredients and Their Role:
- Smoked Ham Shank/Hock – The backbone of this dish, providing a deep umami flavor. The bone-in ham infuses the broth with richness as it simmers.
- White Beans – These creamy, protein-packed beans add body and texture to the stew while complementing the smoky ham. Cannellini or Great Northern beans work best.
- Potatoes – A starchy addition that thickens the stew and provides heartiness.
- Parmesan Rind – A hidden gem in this recipe! Adding a parmesan rind to the simmering broth enhances the umami and depth of flavor.
- Cabbage & Celery – These vegetables add a slight sweetness and additional texture, balancing out the richness of the stew.
- Fresh Thyme & Garlic – Essential aromatics that bring warmth and complexity to the broth.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Low and Slow Cooking: Simmering the stew for at least an hour allows the ham to release its smoky, salty flavors into the broth, creating a deeply satisfying dish.
- Blending for Creaminess: If you prefer a thicker consistency, blend a portion of the beans and potatoes before serving.
- Make it Ahead: The flavors deepen and improve over time, so this stew is perfect for making ahead and reheating.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this stew with crusty bread or cornbread to soak up the rich, savory broth. A side of sautéed greens or a light salad can balance out the meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One-Pot & Easy Cleanup – Minimal dishes, maximum flavor.
- Protein-Packed & Nutritious – Full of fiber, vitamins, and protein from beans and ham.
- Perfect for Leftovers – Tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop.
The History and Inspiration Behind Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew
Smoked ham and white bean stew is a classic dish with deep roots in traditional European and American cooking. Variations of this comforting stew have been enjoyed for centuries, particularly in French, Italian, and Southern U.S. cuisines. The combination of smoky, cured meats and creamy white beans has long been a staple for creating hearty, nutritious meals using humble, pantry-friendly ingredients.
Historically, ham hocks or shanks were commonly used in soups and stews because they added deep flavor to broths while making use of every part of the animal—an essential practice in peasant cooking. White beans, such as cannellini, navy beans, or Great Northern beans, were ideal companions because they absorb flavors beautifully while providing plant-based protein and fiber.
Today, this dish remains a beloved comfort food that is perfect for cold weather, meal prepping, and family gatherings. The balance of savory ham, hearty beans, creamy potatoes, and aromatic herbs makes it a rich, satisfying meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor.
How to Customize This Recipe
One of the best things about this stew is its versatility. You can easily modify the recipe based on dietary preferences, available ingredients, or personal taste.
Here are some great variations to try:
- Make it Vegetarian: Swap out the smoked ham for mushrooms, smoked paprika, and vegetable broth to maintain the rich, smoky depth of flavor.
- Try a Different Protein: Instead of ham, use chorizo, smoked turkey legs, or pancetta for a unique twist.
- Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutrition by incorporating carrots, leeks, spinach, or kale for added texture and flavor.
- Make it Creamier: Stir in a touch of heavy cream or coconut milk at the end for an ultra-luxurious texture.
- Spice it Up: Add red pepper flakes, cayenne, or smoked paprika for a bit of heat.
Storage and Reheating Tips
This stew is even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop! Here’s how to store and reheat it properly:
- Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: This stew freezes well! Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Warm the stew over low heat on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water if needed. For quicker reheating, use the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
What to Serve with Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew
This stew is a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, here are some delicious side dishes that pair perfectly:
- Crusty Bread – A warm, rustic loaf is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth.
- Cornbread – A Southern favorite that adds a slightly sweet contrast to the smoky, savory stew.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try Brussels sprouts, carrots, or butternut squash for added depth.
- Side Salad – A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can help balance the richness of the stew.
Why This Recipe is a Must-Try
- Rich and Hearty: The smoky ham, creamy beans, and flavorful broth make this a truly satisfying dish.
- Easy to Make: This is a one-pot, slow-simmered meal with minimal prep and simple ingredients.
- Great for Meal Prep: The flavors only improve over time, making it ideal for make-ahead meals.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to suit different dietary preferences.
Conclusion
This Smoked Ham and White Bean Stew is the perfect blend of comfort, flavor, and nourishment. With its smoky, slow-simmered broth, creamy white beans, and tender potatoes, every spoonful is rich, hearty, and deeply satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a cozy family dinner, meal prepping for the week, or entertaining guests, this one-pot dish delivers big on taste while remaining incredibly simple to prepare.
The best part? This stew is versatile and adaptable—you can adjust the ingredients to suit your dietary needs or experiment with different flavors to make it your own. Plus, it’s budget-friendly, freezer-friendly, and even better the next day, making it a reliable go-to for busy weeknights or chilly evenings.
Serve it with crusty bread, cornbread, or a fresh salad, and enjoy a meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Whether you’re new to making stews or a seasoned home cook, this recipe is sure to become a comfort food classic in your kitchen!