Bean and Ham Hock Soup: A Hearty, Comforting Classic

For those chilly days or when you’re craving something rich and satisfying, Bean and Ham Hock Soup is the ultimate comfort food. Packed with protein, smoky flavors, and a creamy texture from the beans, this soup is as nourishing as it is delicious. Perfect for family meals, meal prepping, or enjoying a cozy night at home.

Why You’ll Love This Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Rich and Flavorful: The ham hock adds a smoky depth, and the beans bring creaminess to every spoonful.
Nutritious and Hearty: Beans are packed with fiber and protein, making this soup filling and healthy.
Perfect for Leftovers: The flavors only get better the next day, making it ideal for meal prepping.

Ingredients for Bean and Ham Hock Soup

1 lb dried white beans (like navy or cannellini), soaked overnight
1 large ham hock
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
8 cups chicken broth (or water)
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions for Making Bean and Ham Hock Soup

1. Prepare the Beans

Soak the beans overnight in water. Drain and rinse them before using.

2. Sauté the Vegetables

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery, and sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.

3. Add Ham Hock and Broth

Place the ham hock in the pot with the vegetables. Add the soaked beans, chicken broth (or water), bay leaf, and dried thyme. Bring the mixture to a boil.

4. Simmer the Soup

Once it reaches a boil, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the ham hock is cooked through.

5. Shred the Ham

Remove the ham hock from the pot. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred the meat off the bone, discarding any skin or bone. Add the shredded ham back to the soup.

6. Season and Serve

Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle into bowls, garnish with fresh parsley, and enjoy!

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 2-3 hours
Total Time: 2-3 hours 10 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Tips for Perfect Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Pre-Soak the Beans: Soaking beans overnight helps them cook faster and results in a creamier texture.
Customize the Flavor: Add a dash of smoked paprika or chili powder for a subtle kick.
Use Leftovers: If you have leftover ham, you can add it along with the ham hock for extra meat.

Nutritional Benefits

Beans are rich in fiber and protein, supporting digestive health and keeping you full. Ham hocks provide an excellent source of flavor without too much fat, making this a nourishing and well-balanced meal.

Conclusion

Bean and Ham Hock Soup is a timeless recipe that brings warmth, nutrition, and comfort in every bowl. Simple to make yet filled with complex flavors, this soup is perfect for cold days, family gatherings, or when you’re in need of a hearty, satisfying meal. Serve it with crusty bread, and you have a complete, cozy dinner that everyone will love!

Bean and Ham Hock Soup