Hearty northern bean soup with ham and vegetables

Northern-style thick bean soup with ham and vegetables is a highly valued traditional dish in the northern regions of Mexico and other rural areas. This recipe has roots dating back to the colonial era, when basic ingredients like beans and ham began to be combined to create nutritious and comforting meals. In different Latin American countries, this soup may vary in name and preparation; for example, in Colombia it is known as "sopa de fríjoles con carne", while in Argentina lighter variants are popular, simply called "guiso de frijoles". Over time, this soup has been a symbol of home cooking, valued for its deep flavor and its ability to feed many people with inexpensive and accessible ingredients.

This delicious thick soup is ideal for cold days and represents a direct connection to the land and culinary tradition of the northern region. The ham hocks provide an intense and salty flavor, while the fresh vegetables complement the dish with additional textures and nutrients. Preparing it is a perfect way to enjoy a balanced meal, full of flavor and easily adaptable to personal tastes.

How to prepare Northern-style thick bean soup with ham and vegetables

To begin this delicious recipe, soak the dried white beans overnight in water that covers them by 5 cm. This will help soften them and reduce the cooking time.

After soaking, drain the beans and add them to a pot with fresh water that covers them by about 2.5 cm. Add the ham hocks and cook everything over low heat for at least 2 hours until the beans are tender and the flavor of the ham has been incorporated into the mixture.

Remove the ham bone and let the preparation cool slightly. Meanwhile, prepare the vegetables: onion, carrot, green bell pepper, and tomatoes. Add them to the pot with the beans.

Remove the ham from the bone, chop it into small pieces, and return it to the soup. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, which can take between 30 minutes and 1 hour.

During cooking, adjust the flavor with sugar, salt, cayenne pepper, and mace to taste. This soup is perfect for making in large quantities, as it keeps well in the freezer for future meals.