Bean and Ham Hock Soup

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of bean and ham hock soup. It’s hearty, flavorful, and steeped in tradition. Perfect for chilly days or when you need a wholesome, filling meal, this soup brings together tender beans, smoky ham hock, and a medley of vegetables for a dish that warms you from the inside out.

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried white beans (navy or cannellini beans)
• 1 large smoked ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or water)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil (optional for sautéing vegetables)
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans:
   If using dried beans, rinse them and either soak them overnight or use the quick-soak method: cover beans with water, bring to a boil, boil for 2 minutes, then turn off the heat and let sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse.
2. Sauté the Vegetables (Optional):
   In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the chopped onion, carrots, and celery for about 5-7 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add Ham Hock and Beans:
   Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot along with the ham hock, bay leaf, and thyme.
4. Simmer:
   Pour in the chicken broth (or water) to cover the beans and ham hock. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook for 2-3 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the ham hock is falling apart.
5. Shred Ham:
   Remove the ham hock from the pot. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone, discarding any fat and bones. Return the shredded ham to the pot.
6. Season:
   Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. If the soup is too thick, you can add more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
7. Serve:
   Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.

Tips:

• For extra flavor, add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice just before serving to brighten the soup.
• You can also use leftover ham in place of the ham hock if you prefer a quicker version of this recipe.