Homemade White Bean and Ham Hock Soup
There’s a certain kind of magic in the simplicity of a well-made soup, especially when it’s one that brings warmth and comfort to every spoonful. Our Homemade White Bean and Ham Hock Soup is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of hearty flavors and rustic charm that has been passed down through generations. This soup combines the smokiness of ham hocks with the creaminess of tender white beans, all brought together by a medley of aromatic vegetables and herbs. Whether you’re looking to use up leftover ham or simply craving a bowl of something soothing, this recipe is your go-to for a satisfying meal.
ADVERTISEMENT
Ingredients You’ll Need
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Dried white beans (navy or cannellini beans) | 1 lb |
| Smoked ham hock or leftover ham bone | 1 large |
| Onion, diced | 1 |
| Carrots, diced | 2 |
| Celery stalks, diced | 2 |
| Garlic, minced | 4 cloves |
| Bay leaf | 1 |
| Dried thyme | 1 teaspoon |
| Dried oregano | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Low-sodium chicken broth or water | 8 cups |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Salt | To taste |
| Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) | To taste |
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Beans
The first step in making this soup is to prepare the beans. Rinse the dried white beans under cold water, removing any debris or damaged beans. Soak the beans in a large bowl filled with water overnight or for at least 8 hours. Soaking the beans not only softens them but also reduces cooking time. If you’re short on time, use the quick-soak method: place the beans in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour.
ADVERTISEMENT
Step 2: Sautéing the Vegetables
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for about 5 minutes, or until they begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the garlic becomes fragrant. This step is crucial as it builds the base flavor of your soup, with the vegetables adding sweetness and depth.
ADVERTISEMENT
Step 3: Adding the Ham Hock and Seasonings
Once the vegetables are sautéed, it’s time to introduce the ham hock to the pot. Nestle the ham hock among the vegetables, ensuring it’s well-positioned in the pot. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, and bay leaf. These herbs and spices will infuse the soup with a rich, savory flavor that complements the smokiness of the ham.
Step 4: Incorporating the Broth and Beans
After the ham hock and seasonings are added, drain and rinse the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth or water, making sure that the beans and ham hock are fully submerged. If necessary, add more liquid to ensure everything is covered. This step is where the soup begins to come together, as the beans start to absorb the flavors from the ham and seasonings.
Step 5: Simmering to Perfection
Bring the pot to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 2 hours. During this time, the beans will soften and the ham hock will begin to break down, releasing its smoky flavor into the soup. Stir the soup occasionally and check the beans for doneness. The long, slow simmering is what gives this soup its deep, rich flavor, as the ingredients meld together beautifully.
Step 6: Shredding the Ham
Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Allow it to cool slightly before shredding the meat, discarding any fat or bone. Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine. The addition of the shredded ham adds a hearty texture to the soup, making each bite satisfying and flavorful.
Step 7: Final Adjustments
Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed. Since ham hocks can be quite salty, it’s best to wait until this point to add any extra salt. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency. This step ensures that the soup is perfectly balanced in flavor, with just the right amount of seasoning.
Step 8: Serving and Garnishing
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped parsley. The parsley not only adds a pop of color but also a hint of freshness that complements the richness of the soup. Serve the soup with crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal. The combination of the warm, hearty soup and the crisp bread is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
