Introduction
Warm up your soul with a hearty and comforting bowl of Bean and Ham Hock Soup. This classic dish is perfect for chilly days and brings together the wholesome goodness of beans, savory ham hocks, and flavorful seasonings in a simple and satisfying soup.
Why Make This Recipe
Bean and Ham Hock Soup is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and easy to make. This recipe utilizes simple ingredients like dried beans, ham hocks, and basic seasonings to create a flavorful and nourishing meal that the whole family will love.
How to Make Bean and Ham Hock Soup
Ingredients:
- A medium package of dried Northern beans, 16 ounces
- 3 to 4 Meaty ham hock shanks (or meaty ham bone)
- 1 small diced white onion
- Enough water to cover the beans
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 1/3 cup of light brown sugar
Directions:
- Sort the beans for any pebbles and rinse them under cold water.
- In a crockpot, combine the rinsed beans, diced onion, sea salt, pepper, and the ham hocks (chopped into large chunks).
- Add enough water to cover the beans by about 2 inches (approximately 6 to 8 cups).
- Cover and cook on high heat for 2 hours, then reduce to low and continue cooking for 4 to 5 hours, or until beans are tender.
- Remove the ham shanks or hocks, shred the meat, and return it to the crockpot.
- Stir in the brown sugar, adjusting the consistency by draining some juice if needed.
- Gently mix everything together and serve in individual bowls.
How to Serve Bean and Ham Hock Soup
Enjoy this hearty soup on its own or with a side of crusty bread or cornbread. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or a dollop of sour cream for an extra touch of flavor.
How to Store Bean and Ham Hock Soup
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. It can also be frozen for longer storage. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
Tips to Make Bean and Ham Hock Soup
- Soaking the beans overnight can help reduce their cooking time.
- Adjust the seasoning according to your taste preferences, adding herbs like thyme or bay leaves for extra flavor.
- For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans before serving to create a creamier texture.
Variation
For a smokier flavor, you can substitute the ham hocks with smoked ham shanks or smoked turkey legs. This will add a different dimension to the soup while still keeping it rich and flavorful.
FAQs
- Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans? While canned beans can be used, dried beans add a deeper flavor and texture to the soup.
- Is it necessary to add brown sugar to the soup? The brown sugar helps balance the flavors and adds a touch of sweetness, but you can adjust or omit it based on your preference.
- Can I make this soup on the stovetop instead of a crockpot? Yes, you can simmer the soup on low heat on the stovetop, but ensure to check and stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
