bean ham hock soup recipe

The Best bean ham hock soup recipe

I’ve been making this bean ham hock soup recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. It’s a hearty, comforting soup that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.

The combination of tender beans, smoky ham hock, and rich broth is absolutely delicious. My kids love it when I serve it with some crusty bread or over egg noodles.

I’ve also found that this soup is a great way to get in some extra protein and fiber. The beans are packed with nutrients, and the ham hock adds a nice depth of flavor without adding too much sodium.

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply sauté some onions and garlic, add in your beans, ham hock, and broth, and let it simmer until the flavors have melded together.

It’s a great way to get a delicious meal on the table without spending hours in the kitchen. My family loves when I serve this soup with some crusty bread or over egg noodles.

It’s also a great way to use up any leftover beans or vegetables you may have on hand.

Bean and Ham Hock Soup

4.7 from 1614 votes

A hearty and comforting soup featuring tender beans and flavorful ham hock. This recipe is perfect for a cold day and can be easily customized with additional vegetables.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Soup

1 lb dried beans (such as navy or great northern)
1 ham hock
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
6 cups water

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried beans and place them in a large pot.
2Add the ham hock, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and black pepper.
3Cover with water and bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 25 minutes, or until the beans are tender and the ham hock is falling apart.
5Remove the ham hock from the pot, let it cool slightly, then chop the meat into small pieces.
6Return the meat to the pot, discarding the bone and any gristle.
7Continue to simmer the soup for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined and the soup has thickened slightly.
8Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Strainer

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 40mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 35g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 25g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also add spinach or kale for extra nutrition.

Bean ham hock soup is a classic dish that never disappoints. It’s perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night at home.

The combination of tender beans, flavorful ham hock, and aromatic vegetables creates a rich, satisfying meal. The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for longer storage.

Reheat it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water or broth if needed. Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread for a complete meal.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Q: What type of beans should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of bean you like, but I prefer to use navy beans or pinto beans because they hold their shape well and have a nice texture. You can also use canned beans if you’re short on time.

Q: Can I use a different type of protein instead of ham hock?

A: Yes, you can use other types of protein such as bacon or sausage if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

Q: How long does this soup take to make?

A: This soup is relatively quick and easy to make, and it should only take about 30 minutes to an hour from start to finish. Of course, if you’re using dried beans instead of canned beans, it will take longer.

Q: Can I make this soup ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this soup ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 2 months. Just be sure to reheat it thoroughly before serving.

Q: What are some good variations on this recipe?

A: There are many ways you can vary this recipe to suit your taste preferences. You could add some diced vegetables such as carrots or celery for added flavor and nutrition. You could also try using different types of broth such as chicken or beef broth for added depth of flavor.

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