Bean soup with smoked ham hock

Bean Soup with Smoked Ham Hock

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is a traditional comfort food dish, perfect for chilly days or when you want to indulge in a hearty and comforting meal. This recipe combines the rich flavors of beans with smoked ham hock, resulting in a flavorful soup that delights any food lover.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour and 45 minutes
Servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients

- 500 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 300 g smoked ham hock (you can also use the bone for a more intense flavor)
- 2 medium carrots
- 4 medium potatoes
- 2 large onions
- 1-2 tablespoons of tomato paste (or tomato purée)
- Salt (to taste)
- 1 bunch of fresh dill
- A little fresh parsley for garnish
- Water (enough for boiling)

Preparing the Beans

1. Start the process: The day before making the soup, place the beans in a large bowl with water. Let them soak overnight to hydrate and soften. This step not only reduces cooking time but also helps eliminate substances that can cause digestive discomfort.

2. Rinse: The next day, drain the water from the beans and rinse them under cold running water. This will remove impurities and help maintain a clearer soup.

Cooking the Soup

3. Boiling the beans: Place the rinsed beans in a large pot and add fresh water, enough to cover the beans by 5-7 cm. Put the pot over medium heat and bring it to a boil.

4. Skimming: When the beans start to boil, you will notice foam forming on the surface. Use a skimmer or spoon to remove this foam, which will result in a clearer and more appetizing soup.

5. Adding vegetables: When the beans are almost cooked, add the peeled and sliced carrots, chopped onions, and peeled and diced potatoes. Continue to boil over medium heat.

6. Preparing the ham hock: Meanwhile, cut the smoked ham hock into strips or cubes, removing the skin and bone. Add the meat to the pot with the vegetables and beans and let everything boil together for about 30 minutes.

7. Seasoning: When all the ingredients are nearly cooked, add the tomato paste, salt, and seasoning (if using) to taste. Let the soup boil for a few more minutes to blend the flavors.

8. Finishing: Finally, add the finely chopped fresh dill and mix well. Turn off the heat and let the soup rest for a few minutes before serving.

Serving

Serve the soup hot, with finely chopped red onion on the side. You can add a slice of fresh bread or even a fluffy polenta for extra flavor. This soup is also perfect alongside a bottle of white wine or a cold beer to complement the rich flavor of the dish.

Practical Tips

- Beans: If you're short on time, you can use canned beans. In this case, add them at the end, after the vegetables are cooked, to prevent them from falling apart.
- Ham hock: You can experiment with different types of smoked meats (such as sausages or bacon), each bringing a distinct note to your soup.
- Variations: For a spicy kick, add a finely chopped chili pepper during boiling or a little freshly ground black pepper.

Nutritional Benefits

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, aiding digestive health. The smoked ham hock adds an intake of animal protein and an intense flavor. The dill added at the end not only enhances the aroma but also brings beneficial antioxidants to the body.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use frozen beans? Yes, you can use frozen beans, but the cooking time will be considerably reduced. Add the frozen beans directly to the pot.
- How can I make the soup lighter? You can reduce the amount of ham hock or replace it with chicken or turkey, which is leaner.
- How much salt should I add? Start with a small amount and gradually add more, tasting along the way to avoid overly salty soup.

Personal Story

This bean soup recipe with smoked ham hock always reminds me of family meals when my grandmother lovingly prepared the soup using fresh ingredients from the garden. The aroma of the soup simmering on the stove gathered us all around the table, and each bite was a story shared with love.

So, I wish you happy cooking and hope you enjoy every serving of this warm soup that will not only nourish your body but also bring warmth to your soul!