Ham Kale White Beans (Printable Version)

A comforting blend of ham, white beans, and kale in a rich, flavorful broth.

# Ingredient List:

→ Meats

01 - 1 pound cooked ham, diced

→ Vegetables

02 - 1 large yellow onion, diced
03 - 3 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
04 - 2 celery stalks, sliced
05 - 4 cups chopped kale, stems removed
06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

→ Beans & Legumes

07 - 2 cans (15 ounces each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed

→ Liquids

08 - 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
09 - 1 cup water

→ Herbs & Spices

10 - 1 bay leaf
11 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
12 - 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
13 - 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika, optional
14 - Salt to taste

→ Oils

15 - 2 tablespoons olive oil

# Steps:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until vegetables begin to soften.
02 - Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
03 - Stir in diced ham and cook for 2 minutes.
04 - Add cannellini beans, chicken broth, water, bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, and smoked paprika if using. Bring to a boil.
05 - Reduce heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
06 - Add chopped kale. Simmer uncovered for 8 to 10 minutes, or until kale is tender and flavors meld.
07 - Taste and season with salt as needed. Remove bay leaf before serving.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • It comes together in under an hour and tastes like you've been simmering it all day.
  • One pot means you're not drowning in dishes while winter winds howl outside your kitchen.
  • The ham gives you that savory depth without any fancy techniques or ingredients you can't pronounce.
02 -
  • If you add the kale at the beginning, it'll turn into an unappetizing gray-green mush—wait until the very end so it stays bright and slightly tender.
  • Rinsing your canned beans is non-negotiable if you want clear broth instead of something that looks like dirty dishwater.
03 -
  • If you're vegetarian, skip the ham and use vegetable broth instead, then add an extra can of beans or some sautéed mushrooms to keep it hearty and satisfying.
  • The smoked paprika is optional on paper but essential in practice—it adds a warmth and depth that makes people wonder what your secret is.
Return