Bean soup with smoked ham hock - a comforting delight that combines traditional flavors with an unmistakable taste! This recipe is perfect for cool days when a warm and hearty bowl of soup is exactly what we crave. So, let’s get cooking!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 500 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 red bell pepper (or green pepper)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large onion
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons magic borscht (or classic borscht)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1-2 tablespoons vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the ham hock
We start by washing the smoked ham hock under cold running water. This step is important to remove excess salt and smoke that could affect the final taste of the soup. Then, we place the ham hock in a large pot, cover it with water, and let it boil over medium heat for about 1 hour, until the meat easily separates from the bone. Don’t forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface!
Step 2: Preparing the beans
The beans should be soaked in cold water overnight. This not only helps reduce cooking time but also improves digestibility. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well. Then, boil them in fresh water, letting them simmer in three different waters, changing the water each time. This step is essential to eliminate any substances that may cause gastric discomfort.
Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
While the ham hock and beans are boiling, we prepare the vegetables. Grate the onion and slice the carrot into rounds. Cut the bell pepper into small cubes. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent. This step will intensify the flavors and add a richer taste to the soup.
Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Once the ham hock is cooked, remove the meat from the pot and cut it into small pieces. In the same pot, add the boiled beans and sautéed vegetables. Now, add the chopped ham hock, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 5: Adding aromatic ingredients
In a bowl, mix the tomato paste with a little water to thin it out, then add it to the pot. Finely chop the tarragon and lovage, adding them as well. Also, add vegeta and pepper to taste. This is the moment when the soup starts to come alive!
Step 6: Thickening the soup
In another bowl, mix the flour with water and a ladle of broth from the pot to avoid lumps. Pour the mixture into the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. The soup will become slightly thicker and more substantial.
Step 7: Finishing touches
Finally, add the 2 tablespoons of magic borscht, which will give it a perfect tangy flavor. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes for the flavors to meld.
Serving
Bean soup with smoked ham hock is served hot, garnished with chopped fresh lovage. A perfect accompaniment is a red onion salad, which will add a pleasant contrast of flavors. If you want to bring a touch of freshness, add a few slices of lemon alongside your bowl.
Helpful tip
To intensify the flavor of the soup, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves during cooking. Also, if you prefer a spicy note, add a little dried or fresh chili 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, fiber, and vitamins, contributing to a healthy digestive system and maintaining a healthy body weight. The smoked ham hock adds a rich flavor and protein content, but it's important to consume it in moderation due to fat and salt content.
Calories
A serving of bean soup with smoked ham hock contains approximately 320-400 calories, depending on the portion of ham and the oil used. It is an excellent choice for a hearty and comforting meal without exceeding the daily calorie limit.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove sodium and preservatives.
2. Can I replace the smoked ham hock with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
3. How can I make the soup more tangy?
You can add more borscht or lemon juice, depending on your taste.
Possible variations
- Vegetarian bean soup: A delicious variation is to use vegetables instead of smoked ham hock. Add mushrooms for a richer taste and extra vitamins.
- Turkey smoked soup: If you want a lighter version, turkey smoke is an excellent choice!
Bean soup with smoked ham hock is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary tradition that brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones. Try this recipe, and the joy of cooking will fill your home with aromas and pleasant memories! Enjoy your meal!
Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Ingredients
- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 1-1.5 kg)
- 500 g beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 1 red bell pepper (or green pepper)
- 1 medium carrot
- 1 large onion
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 2 tablespoons magic borscht (or classic borscht)
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 1 bunch of fresh lovage
- 1 bunch of fresh tarragon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1-2 tablespoons vegeta (or salt, to taste)
- Freshly ground pepper (to taste)
- Water (enough to cover the ingredients)
Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the ham hock
We start by washing the smoked ham hock under cold running water. This step is important to remove excess salt and smoke that could affect the final taste of the soup. Then, we place the ham hock in a large pot, cover it with water, and let it boil over medium heat for about 1 hour, until the meat easily separates from the bone. Don’t forget to skim off the foam that forms on the surface!
Step 2: Preparing the beans
The beans should be soaked in cold water overnight. This not only helps reduce cooking time but also improves digestibility. The next day, drain the beans and rinse them well. Then, boil them in fresh water, letting them simmer in three different waters, changing the water each time. This step is essential to eliminate any substances that may cause gastric discomfort.
Step 3: Preparing the vegetables
While the ham hock and beans are boiling, we prepare the vegetables. Grate the onion and slice the carrot into rounds. Cut the bell pepper into small cubes. In a pan, add a little oil and sauté the vegetables over medium heat for 5-7 minutes until they become slightly translucent. This step will intensify the flavors and add a richer taste to the soup.
Step 4: Combining the ingredients
Once the ham hock is cooked, remove the meat from the pot and cut it into small pieces. In the same pot, add the boiled beans and sautéed vegetables. Now, add the chopped ham hock, allowing the flavors to combine.
Step 5: Adding aromatic ingredients
In a bowl, mix the tomato paste with a little water to thin it out, then add it to the pot. Finely chop the tarragon and lovage, adding them as well. Also, add vegeta and pepper to taste. This is the moment when the soup starts to come alive!
Step 6: Thickening the soup
In another bowl, mix the flour with water and a ladle of broth from the pot to avoid lumps. Pour the mixture into the pot and let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes. The soup will become slightly thicker and more substantial.
Step 7: Finishing touches
Finally, add the 2 tablespoons of magic borscht, which will give it a perfect tangy flavor. Let the soup simmer for a few more minutes for the flavors to meld.
Serving
Bean soup with smoked ham hock is served hot, garnished with chopped fresh lovage. A perfect accompaniment is a red onion salad, which will add a pleasant contrast of flavors. If you want to bring a touch of freshness, add a few slices of lemon alongside your bowl.
Helpful tip
To intensify the flavor of the soup, you can add a few peppercorns or bay leaves during cooking. Also, if you prefer a spicy note, add a little dried or fresh chili 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, fiber, and vitamins, contributing to a healthy digestive system and maintaining a healthy body weight. The smoked ham hock adds a rich flavor and protein content, but it's important to consume it in moderation due to fat and salt content.
Calories
A serving of bean soup with smoked ham hock contains approximately 320-400 calories, depending on the portion of ham and the oil used. It is an excellent choice for a hearty and comforting meal without exceeding the daily calorie limit.
Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well before use to remove sodium and preservatives.
2. Can I replace the smoked ham hock with another type of meat?
Yes, you can use pork or chicken to adapt the recipe to your preferences.
3. How can I make the soup more tangy?
You can add more borscht or lemon juice, depending on your taste.
Possible variations
- Vegetarian bean soup: A delicious variation is to use vegetables instead of smoked ham hock. Add mushrooms for a richer taste and extra vitamins.
- Turkey smoked soup: If you want a lighter version, turkey smoke is an excellent choice!
Bean soup with smoked ham hock is more than just a recipe; it’s a culinary tradition that brings back memories of moments spent with loved ones. Try this recipe, and the joy of cooking will fill your home with aromas and pleasant memories! Enjoy your meal!