This hearty Beans and Ham Hock Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly days. Packed with flavor and nutrients, it’s a satisfying meal that makes use of simple ingredients. The smoky ham hock enriches the broth, while the beans provide protein and fiber, making it both delicious and nourishing.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb dried beans (such as navy or pinto), soaked overnight and drained
- 1 smoked ham hock
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
- In a large pot, sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery over medium heat until softened, about 5-7 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently.
- Stir in the soaked and drained beans, ham hock, broth, thyme, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the ham hock is falling apart.
- Remove the ham hock, let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone and return it to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Discard the bay leaf.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley.
Enjoy your comforting bowl of beans and ham hock soup!