Here’s a delicious Navy Bean and Ham Soup recipe for you:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and soaked overnight
• 1 ham hock or 1 to 1.5 cups diced ham
• 1 onion, finely chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cups kale, stems removed and chopped (optional)
• 1 tablespoon cider vinegar (optional, for added brightness)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:

   • Rinse the dried navy beans thoroughly and soak them in a large bowl of water overnight. Drain before using.

2. Sauté Aromatics:

   • Heat olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat.
   • Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.

3. Add Ham and Beans:

   • If using a ham hock, add it to the pot. Otherwise, add diced ham.
   • Pour in the soaked and drained navy beans.
   • Stir in chicken or vegetable broth, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.

4. Simmer:

   • Bring the soup to a boil and then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.

5. Adjust Seasoning:

   • Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. You can add more salt, pepper, or thyme to suit your taste.

6. Add Greens and Vinegar (Optional):

   • Stir in chopped kale if desired and cook until wilted.
   • For a touch of brightness, add cider vinegar to the soup and stir.

7. Serve:

   • Remove the bay leaves before serving.
   • Serve the Navy Bean and Ham Soup hot, and enjoy with crusty bread or a side salad.

This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for a comforting meal, especially on colder days. Adjust the ingredients and seasonings according to your preferences. Enjoy!