Bean dish BOB with smoked ham hock

Bean Stew with Smoked Ham Hock

Broad beans are an exceptionally versatile and flavorful ingredient that adds depth and richness to any meal. This bean stew recipe with smoked ham hock is not only a delight but also an excellent choice for family gatherings, providing enough to feed a whole community. With a preparation time of about 30 minutes and a cooking time of 2 hours, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.

Ingredients (for 6 servings)

- 500 g broad beans
- 750-800 g smoked ham hock
- 1 onion
- 1 carrot
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4-5 tomatoes
- 1 bunch of dill and lovage
- 20 ml oil
- 50 ml tomato ketchup
- 1 cube/teaspoon smoked bacon/mushroom concentrate
- Salt, pepper, paprika, thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1-2 teaspoons sugar

Preparation Time

- Preparation: 30 minutes
- Boiling: 1 hour
- Total Cooking Time: 2 hours
- Total: 2 hours and 30 minutes

Step by Step

1. Preparing the Beans:
Start by rinsing the broad beans under cold running water. After washing, place them in a bowl and cover with cold water. Let them soak overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce boiling time and improves digestibility.

2. Boiling the Ham Hock:
The next day, place the smoked ham hock in a large pot with 2 liters of cold water. Add a pinch of salt and let it simmer on low heat, covered, for 50-60 minutes. This process will make the meat tender and release delicious flavors into the water, creating a perfect base for the stew.

3. Boiling the Beans:
Once the ham hock has boiled, drain the beans and place them in another pot with 2 liters of fresh water. Boil the beans over medium heat for 30-40 minutes or until soft. Be sure to remove any foam that forms on the surface to achieve a clear broth.

4. Preparing the Vegetables:
While the beans and ham hock are boiling, peel and finely chop the onion, carrot, parsnip, and bell pepper. The tomatoes can be peeled (if desired) and diced. This vegetable mix will bring a fresh taste and pleasant texture to your dish.

5. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In a pot or skillet, heat the oil and add the onion, carrot, and parsnip. Sauté for 5-7 minutes until they become translucent. Then, add the bell pepper and diced tomatoes. Continue to stir with a wooden spoon to combine the flavors.

6. Adding the Spices:
Once the vegetables have softened, add the chopped herbs (dill and lovage), ketchup, salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, sugar, and the smoked bacon concentrate. Mix well to combine all the ingredients. These spices will enhance the flavor of the dish, bringing a balance between sweet and salty.

7. Combining the Ingredients:
After the beans are cooked, drain them and add them to the sautéed vegetables. Remove the ham hock from the water, discard the bones, and chop the meat. Add the chopped meat to the stew along with the bay leaf. Gently mix and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes for all the flavors to meld together.

8. Finalizing the Dish:
Taste the stew and adjust with salt and pepper if necessary. If you desire a smokier flavor, you can add a ladle of the broth in which the ham hock was boiled. This will enrich the dish's aroma.

9. Serving:
Serve the bean stew with smoked ham hock warm, garnished with fresh lovage leaves. It can be enjoyed alongside a slice of fresh bread or with polenta for a rustic and comforting meal.

Practical Tips

- Choosing Ingredients: Opt for high-quality broad beans, preferably organic. Quality beans will have a better texture and more intense flavor.
- Vegetarian Option: You can replace the smoked ham hock with a mix of wild mushrooms or vegetarian smoked meat. This will bring a rich flavor while keeping the recipe vegan-friendly.
- Preserving Flavor: If you want to keep the stew for several days, quickly cool it down and store it in the fridge or freezer. Reheat it on low heat, adding a little water to refresh the taste.
- Alternative Pairings: This dish pairs perfectly with a fresh summer salad or pickles to add a contrasting flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Broad beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins. They help maintain healthy digestion and can aid in weight control. The smoked ham hock provides a supply of protein and minerals, but it’s important to consume this dish in moderation due to its salt and fat content.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use canned beans?: While canned beans are a convenient option, they won't have the same texture and flavor as dried beans. If you choose this option, make sure to rinse them well before use.
- How can I enhance the flavor of the stew?: Adding spices like cumin or smoked paprika can bring an extra layer of complexity to the taste.
- What drinks pair well with bean stew?: A light lager or a smooth red wine can perfectly complement this dish, balancing the intense flavors of the ham hock and the sweetness of the beans.

This bean stew with smoked ham hock is a simple and delicious recipe, perfect for family meals or special occasions. I hope you try this recipe and that it brings you joy and satisfaction!