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Hearty Bean and Ham Hock Soup: A Comforting and Flavorful Meal
There’s nothing quite like a bowl of Hearty Bean and Ham Hock Soup to warm you up on a chilly day. This rich, flavorful soup is the epitome of comfort food—packed with tender beans, smoky ham hock, and aromatic vegetables, all simmered together to create a nourishing meal that’s both hearty and satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just looking for a wholesome meal that’ll last through the week, this soup is perfect for any occasion.
The beauty of this soup lies in its simplicity. By using a few humble ingredients and a slow simmer, you can create a deeply flavorful dish that’s both filling and nutritious. Let’s dive into this recipe for Hearty Bean and Ham Hock Soup—a classic that’s perfect for meal prep or serving to family and friends.
Why You’ll Love Hearty Bean and Ham Hock Soup:
- Rich, Smoky Flavor: The ham hock adds a smoky depth that infuses the broth and beans, giving the soup a savory richness that’s hard to beat.
- Protein-Packed: With both beans and ham, this soup provides a great source of protein, making it a filling meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
- One-Pot Wonder: Everything cooks together in a single pot, making clean-up a breeze. Plus, slow cooking the ingredients lets all the flavors meld together for a richer taste.
- Customizable: You can adjust the seasonings and add extra vegetables or herbs to suit your tastes, making this recipe easy to customize based on what you have in your kitchen.
- Freezer-Friendly: Make a big batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy meal later on. This soup actually gets better after a day or two, as the flavors continue to develop.
Ingredients for Hearty Bean and Ham Hock Soup:
- 1 lb dried white beans (great northern beans, navy beans, or cannellini beans)
- 1 ham hock (about 1 to 1.5 pounds, bone-in for the best flavor)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a lighter version)
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smoky flavor)
- Salt to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional, for a bit of acidity to balance the flavors)
- Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
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