Turkey Ham and Bean Soup

Turkey Ham and Bean Soup is a hearty, comforting stew that typically features smoked turkey ham, a variety of beans (like navy, great northern, or kidney beans), and aromatic vegetables such as carrots, celery, and onions, all simmered in a savory broth. This dish is a staple in American home cooking, particularly in the Southern and Midwestern United States, where it evolved as a practical way to use leftover holiday ham or smoked meats. It's often served with cornbread or crusty bread for a complete, satisfying meal.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

This soup is a balanced, nutrient-dense meal, providing a good source of protein from the turkey ham and beans, along with complex carbohydrates and fiber from the beans and vegetables. A typical 1.5-cup serving contains roughly 250-350 calories, with the exact count depending on the cut of ham and amount of added fats.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	180 kcal
Protein	14 g
Carbs	22 g
Fat	4 g
Fiber	6 g
Sugar	3 g
Sodium	680 mg
Potassium	450 mg
Iron	2.5 mg
Calcium	80 mg
Vitamin A	120 mcg RAE
Vitamin C	4 mg
Niacin (B3)	3 mg
Phosphorus	180 mg
Zinc	2 mg

Per 1 cup (240 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, this soup represents the American tradition of 'nose-to-tail' eating and frugal cooking, transforming a simple smoked ham hock or leftovers into a flavorful, nourishing dish. Nutritionally, the combination of beans and ham creates a complete protein profile, and the high fiber content from the beans makes it particularly filling and beneficial for digestive health.