Red bean soup with smoked ham hock

Red bean soup with smoked ham hock is a flavorful dish that brings joy to any family's table. With a rich history in culinary traditions, this recipe represents not just a meal, but also a way to gather loved ones around the table. Whether you're preparing it for a chilly winter day or a special occasion, red bean soup with smoked ham hock is sure to be a hit.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour (with a pressure cooker)
Total time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients:

- 1 smoked ham hock (preferably boneless for easier serving)
- 500 g red kidney beans (soaked overnight or blanched in three waters)
- 2 carrots
- 2 red onions
- 1 parsnip
- 1 small piece of celery
- 2 bell peppers (one red and one yellow)
- 3 fresh tomatoes
- 1 bunch of lovage
- a few sprigs of tarragon
- 2 bay leaves
- salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient Preparation

1. Ham hock: Rinse the ham hock under cold running water, then remove any leftover bone or fat. If using a boneless ham hock, cut it into smaller pieces for even cooking. The smokiness adds a deep flavor, so ensure it's of good quality.

2. Beans: If you haven't soaked the beans overnight, a quick method is to blanch them in three waters. Rinse the beans and boil them in a pot of water, discarding each water as it boils. This step helps reduce cooking time and avoid gastric discomfort.

3. Vegetables: Peel and finely chop the carrots, red onions, parsnip, celery, and bell peppers. These vegetables will add sweetness and flavor to the soup, so don't skip this step!

4. Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes well and grate them. This step will help achieve a smooth consistency for the soup, and the tomato juice will enrich the dish's flavor.

Cooking the Soup

1. Boiling the ham hock: Place the ham hock in a pressure cooker and add enough water to cover it. Allow it to boil until the cooker starts to whistle. This step will infuse the meat with flavors and make the soup tastier.

2. Adding the beans: Once the ham hock starts boiling, add the well-drained beans and the finely chopped vegetables. Bring to a boil again and let it cook for about 30 minutes. With the pressure cooker, the beans will cook much faster, turning this dish into a quick recipe.

3. Tomatoes: Once the beans are nearly cooked, add the grated tomatoes and stir. Let the soup simmer for another 15-20 minutes until the tomatoes are fully incorporated.

4. Seasoning: Add bay leaves, salt, and pepper to taste. The aroma of lovage and tarragon will perfectly complement the soup's flavor, so be sure to add them at the end for a fresh taste.

Serving the Soup

Red bean soup with smoked ham hock is best served hot, alongside a roasted beet salad or assorted pickles. These accompaniments provide a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors, turning dinner into a true celebration of tastes.

Practical Tips

- Variations: You can experiment with different types of smoked meats, such as ham or sausages, to add a personal touch to the dish.
- Beans: For a lighter version, you can use canned beans, but make sure to drain and rinse them well before adding them to the soup.
- Flavoring: Try adding a tablespoon of tomato paste for a more intense flavor and beautiful color.
- Storage: The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days, and the flavor improves as it cools and is reheated.

Nutritional Information

This soup is rich in protein from the meat and beans, making it an excellent source of fiber. It's a nutritious choice, perfect for a hearty meal, with approximately 350-400 calories per serving, depending on the amount of ham hock used.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to reduce sodium.

2. How long can I keep the soup in the fridge?
The soup can be kept for up to 4 days in the fridge and up to 3 months in the freezer.

3. How can I enhance the soup's flavor?
Add fresh herbs or spices like paprika or cumin to intensify the taste.

4. What should I serve alongside the soup?
A beet salad or pickles are the most suitable accompaniments.

In conclusion, red bean soup with smoked ham hock is not just a delicious recipe but also a way to create beautiful memories with loved ones. Don't hesitate to put your personal touch on this recipe and experiment with ingredients and flavors. Enjoy every bite and savor the moments spent in the kitchen!