Bean and Ham Hock Soup: Hearty, Comforting, and Full of Flavor
There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of Bean and Ham Hock Soup on a chilly day. This classic dish combines tender beans, smoky ham hock, and aromatic vegetables into a rich, flavorful broth that warms you from the inside out. Perfect for a family meal or batch cooking, it’s both hearty and comforting.
Ingredients
- 1 large ham hock (smoked or cured)
- 1 cup dried beans (navy, cannellini, or great northern), soaked overnight
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2–3 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock
- 1–2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans
- Drain the soaked beans and rinse them under cold water. This ensures they cook evenly and reduces any bitterness.
- Cook the Ham Hock
- In a large pot, add the ham hock and cover with stock or water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 1–1.5 hours until the meat is tender and falling off the bone.
- Add Vegetables and Beans
- Add the soaked beans, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and bay leaves to the pot.
- Simmer gently for another 1–1.5 hours until the beans are soft and the flavors meld together.
- Season and Serve
- Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve hot with crusty bread.
Tips for the Perfect Soup
- Soak beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Simmer gently; rapid boiling can make beans break apart and turn the broth cloudy.
- Use smoked ham hock for a rich, savory depth.
Why We Love Bean and Ham Hock Soup
This soup is the epitome of comfort food. The smoky ham hock infuses the broth with deep, savory flavor, while the beans provide heartiness and texture. It’s nutritious, filling, and perfect for making ahead, as the flavors only improve the next day.
Whether you’re looking to warm up after a long day or make a hearty family meal, Bean and Ham Hock Soup delivers satisfaction in every spoonful—classic, simple, and unforgettable.
