Ingredients
1 medium stalk celery, sliced
4 cloves garlic, minced
7 cups low-sodium chicken broth or stock
2 bay leaves
1 tablespoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon celery salt
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, sliced
2 cups cooked ham, diced
2 (15 oz) cans white beans (e.g., cannellini or great northern), drained and rinsed
1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
½ teaspoon ground black pepper (adjust to taste)
1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)