MAMA'S HAM AND WHITE BEAN SOUP

Mama's Ham and White Bean Soup image

Provided by Carrie James-Keaton

Time 1h15m

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 Tbsp olive oil
1 medium onion, chopped
1 c sliced carrots
1 c celery, chopped
2 clove garlic, minced
3 c low sodium chicken broth
1 c water
1 c ham steak, diced
1 ham shank
1 tsp oregano, dried
1 bay leaf
3 can(s) great northern beans (15oz cans) rinsed, drained, & divided

Steps:

1. Heat oil in a large stockpot over medium-high heat. Add onion, carrot and celery. Sauté for 10 minutes.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken stock, water, diced ham, ham shank, oregano, bay leaf and 2 cans of beans. Cover and bring to low boil for 10 minutes. Stir; reduce heat and partially cover. Simmer for 30 minutes.
4. Meanwhile, mash remaining can of beans with a potato masher until thick and creamy. Stir into soup mixture; blend well.
5. Cover and simmer for 10 minutes to heat through.
6. Discard ham shank and bay leaf before serving.
7. COOK'S NOTES: I have also made this soup using dry great northern beans. You just have to fully cook them and then begin with the directions in this recipe. Both ways I cooked them turned out yummy!!!