Smoked ham hock potato soup

Smoked Ham Hock Potato Soup

Smoked ham hock potato soup is a classic, refreshing recipe full of flavors that reminds us of the simple joys of family meals. This soup perfectly combines the intense taste of smoked ham hock with the freshness of vegetables and herbs, providing a comforting culinary experience ideal for chilly days. Additionally, it is a simple recipe that can be prepared in about 1 hour, perfect for a quick dinner or to impress guests.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 6

Ingredients:

- 1 kg potatoes (preferably pink or yellow potatoes for a creamy texture)
- 200-300 g smoked ham hock (preferably with a bit of fat for a richer taste)
- 2 medium onions (for added sweetness)
- 2 carrots (for a note of natural sweetness)
- 400 g sour cream (to add creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 cubes of soup concentrate (like Knorr, for a more intense flavor)
- Fresh herbs: parsley, lovage, celery, dill, tarragon (as varied as possible for a complex flavor)

Preparation:

1. Preparing the ingredients:
Start by peeling and chopping the vegetables. Dice the onion and carrots finely, and cut the potatoes into 2 cm cubes. This ensures even cooking of the ingredients.

2. Sautéing the vegetables:
In a large pot, add a few tablespoons of olive oil (or vegetable oil if you prefer) and heat it over medium heat. Add the onion and carrot and sauté for about 5-7 minutes until they become translucent and slightly golden. This is when the flavors develop.

3. Adding the ham hock:
Cut into suitable pieces, add the smoked ham hock to the pot. Sauté it together with the onion and carrot for 5 minutes, stirring constantly. This will release the smoky flavors and enrich the soup base.

4. The potatoes:
Once the ham hock has lightly sautéed, add the potato cubes. Mix well to combine the ingredients and allow the flavors to intertwine. If you notice it starting to stick to the bottom of the pot, do not hesitate to add a cup of water to prevent burning.

5. Boiling:
Cover the pot with a lid and let it simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes. This step is crucial as it helps soften the potatoes and develop the flavors. Check the consistency from time to time, gently stirring.

6. Adding water and seasonings:
After 20 minutes, add enough water to cover all the ingredients (about 1.5-2 liters) and add the soup concentrate cubes, salt, and pepper to taste. Boil the soup for 15-20 minutes or until the potatoes are fully cooked.

7. Finishing the soup:
Once the potatoes are cooked, turn off the heat and add the finely chopped herbs. This will bring an extra freshness and color to the soup. Gently mix the sour cream into the soup, first diluting it with a few tablespoons of soup broth to avoid lumps.

8. Serving:
The smoked ham hock potato soup is served hot, with a slice of fresh bread on the side. You can add a tablespoon of sour cream to each serving and, if you like, a splash of hot pepper for an extra kick.

Practical tips:

- Choosing the ham hock: Opt for a ham hock with a bit of fat, as this will enrich the soup with a deep flavor. You can also use other types of smoked meat to experiment with flavors.
- Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables such as celery or bell pepper to diversify the texture and taste.
- Herbs: Use fresh herbs as they have a much more intense flavor than dried ones. Parsley and lovage are essential, but you can experiment with tarragon for a more aromatic note.

Nutritional information (approximate per serving):

- Calories: 350 kcal
- Protein: 18 g
- Fat: 15 g
- Carbohydrates: 40 g
- Fiber: 5 g

Frequently asked questions:

- Can the soup be frozen?: Smoked ham hock potato soup can be frozen, but it is recommended to add the sour cream only when serving to prevent separation during thawing.
- How can I make the soup spicier?: Add a hot pepper during boiling or season with cayenne pepper for a spicy note.

Ideal pairings:

This soup pairs perfectly with a simple green salad or a pickled cabbage salad, bringing a contrast of textures and flavors. For a drink, a dry white wine or a pale beer will complement the meal excellently.

Smoked ham hock potato soup is not just a recipe, but a story full of tradition and flavor. Each bite will transport you back in time, reminding you of warm meals spent with loved ones. Enjoy this culinary experience and don't forget to share the recipe with your dear ones!