Slow Cooker Smokey Ham and White Bean Soup

There’s nothing better than an amazing tasting slow cooker recipe.  Yes, slow cookers are so very convenient, but they don’t always convince me that they are the best choice in the cooking department with regard to taste and texture….sometimes a stove top sear and simmer or oven braise is so worth the effort, in my opinion.  This soup, on the other hand, I’m convinced.

The ham is pull apart, melt-in-your-mouth tender.  The beans, cooked just perfectly.  The taste is as rich and savory as it comes.  The texture, a dream.  And it requires hardly any work at all.

A family favorite that goes on repeat-mode in my home this time of year.  And rightfully so; it’s a gem!

Slow Cooker Smokey Ham and White Bean Soup

Ingredients

1 Ham Shank, approximately 2 pounds

1 Pound Great Northern Beans

1 Medium White Onion, finely chopped (approx 2 cups)

2 Carrots, thinly sliced

5 Garlic Cloves, finely chopped

2 Sprigs Thyme

2 Bay Leaves

1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper

5 Cups Vegetable Stock

Directions

Place all ingredients except for the ham in a slow cooker and stir until combined. Add the ham, cover and cook on high for 5 hours. Remove ham and shred with two forks, discarding the bone and fat. Remove the thyme sprigs and bay leaves. Place two cups of the soup into a blender and puree until smooth; add it back to the remaining soup along with the shredded ham and stir until combined. Serve immediately or let it sit on ‘warm’ setting until ready to serve. Serves 4-6.