BEST HAM BONE SOUP

Best Ham Bone Soup image

Provided by Lillian Russo

Time 5h15m

Number Of Ingredients 18

1-16 oz package 16 bean mixture-soaked overnight
1 leftover ham bone - smoked *see note
2 1/2 c leftover cubed ham from the ham bone
1 large onion - chopped
3 stalks celery - chopped
4 large carrots - chopped
18 - 24 oz can diced tomatoes with liquid
2 can(s) vegetable broth
2 - 3 can(s) low sodium chicken broth
2 Tbsp worcestershire sauce
2 Tbsp dijon mustard
1 Tbsp chili powder
3 bay leaves
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 Tbsp dried parsley
3 Tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp kosher salt - if needed
*note if you don't have a smoked ham, add 1 capful of liquid smoke, to the soup, during cooking.

Steps:

1. Place the soaked beans into a very large pot and fill with enough water to cover by about 1 inch. Bring to a boil, then simmer over low for 30 minutes. Drain.
2. Add the ham bone, ham, onion, celery, carrots, tomatoes and vegetable broth. Season with Worcestershire sauce, Dijon mustard, chili powder, bay leaves, pepper, parsley and lemon juice. Pour in enough of the chicken broth to cover the ingredients.
3. Simmer over low heat, stirring occasionally, for about 4 hours. Add more chicken broth as needed throughout the day. Remove the ham bone and season with salt if needed. Simmer for another 30 minutes. Remove bay leaves before serving. This is great served with cornbread!
4. This is the cornbread recipe I use to serve with this soup. https://www.justapinch.com/recipe/a-simple-cornbread-by-lillian-russo-lilliancooks