Savor the Flavor: Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 8 cups of low-sodium chicken broth (substitutable with water, beef, or vegetable broth for enhanced taste)
• 1 leftover ham bone with meat, diced ham, or 1 lb. cooked sausage
• 1 clove of minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon of chili powder (optional)
• 1 can (15 oz) of diced tomatoes
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 diced onion
• 1 package of Hurst’s 15 Bean Soup
• Optional: Hot sauce or crushed red pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Begin by rinsing and draining the beans thoroughly, ensuring they’re free from any unwanted debris. Set them aside for later use.
2. In a slow cooker, combine the beans, diced ham (or alternative protein), diced onion, chicken broth, minced garlic, and chili powder. If using a ham bone, it can be substituted for diced ham.
3. Cook the mixture on low heat for 7-8 hours (or on high heat for 4.5-5 hours), or until the beans reach desired tenderness.
4. Once the beans are soft and tender, if a ham bone was used, remove it from the cooker and chop any remaining meat to add back into the soup.
5. Stir in the diced tomatoes, Ham Flavor packet (if available), and fresh lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Allow the soup to simmer for an additional 30 minutes to ensure all the flavors meld together perfectly.

Serve hot and enjoy the comforting warmth and delicious taste of this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Soup. Optionally, add hot sauce or crushed red pepper to tailor the spice level to your preference. Each spoonful is a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more.