Smoked ham hock bean soup

Bean soup with smoked pork knuckle is a true delight, a traditional recipe that speaks of the comfort and warmth of home. This hearty soup is not only nourishing but also brings a touch of nostalgia, having deep roots in our cuisine. It is a perfect choice for chilly days when we crave something warm and comforting. Although it may seem intimidating at times, preparing this soup is actually a simple process, and I am here to guide you step by step!

Preparation time: 30 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Necessary ingredients:

- 500 g smoked pork knuckle with bone
- 300 g dried beans (preferably white or yellow)
- 3 medium carrots
- 1/2 celery root
- 2 parsley roots
- 1 dried onion
- salt, pepper, to taste
- fresh dill and parsley
- For the roux:
- 1 tablespoon oil
- 1 tablespoon flour
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 150 ml tomato juice
- water (approximately 200 ml)

Preparing the beans:
1. Start: Begin by washing the dried beans under a cold water stream, then let them soak in cold water for at least 6 hours or ideally overnight. This step will not only reduce cooking time but also aid in easier digestion of the beans.
2. Boiling the beans: Once the beans have soaked, drain and rinse them again. In a separate pot, add the beans, one chopped onion, and a teaspoon of salt. Cover with water and boil over medium heat until soft, about 40-50 minutes.

Preparing the pork knuckle and vegetables:
3. Boiling the pork knuckle: In another pot, place the smoked pork knuckle along with the chopped carrots, celery, and parsley roots. Cover with water and let it simmer on low heat without adding salt, as the pork knuckle is already salty. Let it simmer for about 1 hour.
4. Mixing the ingredients: Once the beans are almost cooked, drain them and add them to the pot with the pork knuckle and boiled vegetables. Gently stir to combine the flavors.

Preparing the roux:
5. The roux: In a small saucepan, add the oil and flour. Heat over low heat, stirring constantly to avoid burning. Once the flour turns slightly golden, add the paprika and tomato juice, mixing well. Gradually add enough water to achieve a creamy consistency, about 200 ml.
6. Incorporate the roux: Add the roux to the bean soup, stirring continuously to avoid lumps. Season with pepper, but no salt is needed due to the smoked pork knuckle.

Finalizing the soup:
7. Finding balance: Let the soup simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together. At this point, you can adjust the consistency by adding water if you prefer a thinner soup.
8. Adding greens: Finally, add the chopped fresh dill and parsley, giving the soup a fresh and vibrant note.

Serving:
9. Garnishing: This soup is served hot, with a dollop of sour cream on the side and optionally with red onion or chili pepper for an extra kick of flavor. I recommend serving it with a slice of freshly baked homemade bread, which will perfectly complement the rich flavor of the soup.

Useful tips:
- Beans: You can experiment with different types of beans, and red or black beans can add a unique touch to your soup.
- Smoked meat: If you don’t have pork knuckle, you can use other types of smoked meat, such as bacon or smoked sausages.
- Vegan version: For a vegan version, simply omit the pork knuckle and add more vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini.
- Parsley and dill can be used fresh for a more intense flavor, but you can also opt for dried versions, depending on your preferences.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This soup is an excellent source of protein due to the beans, and the pork knuckle adds healthy fats. It is rich in fiber, making it ideal for a healthy diet. A serving of soup provides about 300-350 calories, depending on the amount of sour cream added.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use canned beans? - Although it is quicker, I do not recommend it as the soup will have a different texture and will not absorb flavors as well.
2. How long can it be stored? - The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for later use.
3. What drinks pair well with bean soup? - A craft beer or a dry white wine are excellent choices, but a fruit compote can also be a pleasant accompaniment.

Now it's time to put on your apron, get cooking, and enjoy this delicious bean soup with smoked pork knuckle. Don't forget to share the recipe with your loved ones and tell them about the traditions behind this wonderful dish! Enjoy your meal!