White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Why make this recipe

White Bean and Ham Hock Soup is a perfect comforting dish for chilly days. It brings together simple ingredients to create a hearty, flavorful meal. The soup is not only delicious but also nutritious, as it is packed with protein from the ham and fiber from the white beans. This recipe is great for using leftover ham, making it a smart choice for those who want to minimize food waste. Plus, the easy cooking process means you can have a warm meal ready without spending all day in the kitchen.

How to make White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Ingredients:

• 2 cups diced ham
• 1 ham hock (if available)
• 1 cup diced carrots
• 1 cup diced celery
• 3 cups white beans (cooked)
• 6 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh herbs (e.g., thyme or parsley) for garnish

Directions:

1. In a large pot, heat some oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Add the diced ham, ham hock, white beans, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat and let it simmer for about 1-2 hours or until the ham hock is tender and the flavors have melded together.
5. Remove the ham hock, shred any meat off the bone, and return the meat to the soup.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs.

How to serve White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Serve the soup warm in bowls. It pairs well with crusty bread or a simple green salad. You can also top it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for added flavor and color.

How to store White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

To store the soup, let it cool completely. Place it in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Tips to make White Bean and Ham Hock Soup

• For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the white beans after cooking them and stir them back into the pot.
• Adding a bay leaf while the soup simmers can enhance the flavor.
• If you like a bit of spice, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes.

Variation

You can make a vegetarian version by omitting the ham and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add spinach or kale for extra nutrients.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned white beans?
   Yes, you can use canned white beans for convenience. Just rinse and drain them before adding them to the soup.

2. How can I make the soup quicker?
   You can skip the ham hock and simply use diced ham or cooked sausage. This will shorten the cooking time.

3. Is there a way to make it gluten-free?
   Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just make sure your chicken broth is gluten-free as well.