15 Minute Ham and Bean Soup - Chef Kip Peters, Executive Chef, South Bend Country Club

Certainly, you've had the classic thick bean soup with ham.  It is actually quick and easy to make.  Here's Chef Peters thick and hearty version.

Ingredients:

1 lb. lean ham - cut into 1/2" cubes
1 large onion, chopped
2 ribs of celery, diced
2 large carrots, dices
2 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tbsp olive oil
2 15.5 oz cans northern beans
2 bay leaves
2 tbsp ham base
1 lb. frozen tortellini
2 cups water
salt and pepper to taste

Put 3/4 can of the beans in a food processor and puree.  In a large soup pot, saute ham, onions, carrots, celery and garlic in the olive oil for about 5 minutes.  Add beans, bean puree, bay leaves, ham base and water.  Bring to a boil and simmer until vegetables are soft - about 10 minutes.  Salt and pepper to taste.  Makes 8 servings.