Beans with smoked ham hock

Smoked Ham Hock Beans - A Traditional Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

Total Time: 2 hours
Preparation Time: 30 minutes
Cooking Time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Smoked ham hock beans is a classic dish, beloved by many, that evokes family memories and warm moments spent around the table. This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, combining the intense flavors of the smoked ham hock with the soft texture of the beans and fresh vegetables. Let us guide you step by step in preparing this comforting dish!

Ingredients needed:
- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 500 g)
- 2 cups of white beans (approximately 400 g)
- ½ red bell pepper
- ½ yellow bell pepper
- 1 medium onion
- 1 carrot
- 2 tablespoons of tomato paste
- Pepper, to taste
- Vegeta seasoning, to taste
- Water (approximately 2 liters, for boiling)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the beans:
Start the night before you plan to cook. Rinse the beans thoroughly in several waters, removing any impurities. Then, soak the beans in warm water. This step is essential as it facilitates the subsequent cooking, reducing boiling time and aiding digestion.

2. Boiling the ham hock:
On the day you want to prepare the dish, remove the beans from the water and rinse them again. Fill a large pot three-quarters full with water and add the smoked ham hock. If the ham hock is very smoky, it is recommended to rinse it lightly under cold water to reduce the intensity of the flavor. Place the pot on the stove over medium heat and allow the ham hock to boil for about 30-40 minutes.

3. Preparing the vegetables:
While the ham hock is boiling, prepare the vegetables. Peel and wash the onion, then chop it finely. Peel the carrot and cut it into rounds, and dice the bell peppers. These vegetables will add not only flavor but also freshness to the dish.

4. Adding the beans:
After the ham hock has boiled for more than half the time, add the beans to the pot. Allow them to boil together for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.

5. Integrating the vegetables:
After 15 minutes, add the chopped vegetables (onion, carrot, bell peppers). Continue boiling over medium heat, stirring occasionally, to allow the flavors to meld.

6. Finalizing the dish:
When the beans are nearly done, add the tomato paste and season with pepper and Vegeta to taste. Let everything boil together for another 10 minutes to intensify the flavor. Check the texture of the beans and ensure they are tender.

7. Serving:
Once the dish is ready, turn off the heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Smoked ham hock beans pair perfectly with homemade pickles or fresh red onion, which will add a touch of acidity and complement the rich flavor of the dish.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to reduce cooking time, you can use canned beans, but the flavor will not be as intense.
- You can also add other vegetables, such as celery or parsley, to diversify the taste.
- The smoked ham hock can be replaced with smoked pork or even a vegetarian option using smoked tofu.
- Another suggestion is to add a bit of hot pepper for a touch of spice.

Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and minerals. Eating beans helps maintain digestive health and can contribute to lowering cholesterol. The smoked ham hock, while delicious, is higher in calories, so it is recommended to consume it in moderation.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use dried beans instead of canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to soak and boil them well to avoid digestive issues.

2. What is the best pickle to pair with this dish?
A homemade pickle of cabbage or cucumbers is ideal to balance the rich flavor of the beans.

3. Can I add other spices?
Absolutely! Cumin or paprika can add an interesting flavor to the dish.

My personal twist:
I would like to share a personal variation of my smoked ham hock beans recipe, where I also add a few bay leaves during boiling. The subtle aroma of bay adds depth to the flavor, turning each serving into an unforgettable culinary experience.

This smoked ham hock beans recipe is not just a dish, but a delicious story worth sharing. Feel free to experiment and personalize the recipe to your taste! Cook with love and joy, and savor every moment spent in the kitchen.