Bean and Ham Hock Soup
A heartwarming and flavorful soup, this Bean and Ham Hock Soup is perfect for cozy family dinners, bringing warmth and comfort with every bowl.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces dried Northern beans This is the star of the show! Adds heartiness.
- 3 to 4 pieces meaty ham hock shanks or a meaty ham bone Provides incredible flavor to the broth.
- 1 small white onion, diced Brings sweetness and depth.
- Water for cooking water to cover the beans Essential for cooking the beans.
- to taste salt Enhances flavors.
- to taste pepper Essential seasoning.
- 1/3 cup light brown sugar Adds a delightful balance of sweetness.
Instructions
Preparation
- Rinse the dried Northern beans and soak them overnight in water.
- Gather your ham hocks, diced onion, and all seasonings.
Cooking
- In a large stockpot, combine the soaked beans, ham hocks or ham bone, diced onion, and enough water to cover the beans.
- Bring the pot to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer, cover the pot with a lid, and cook for about 1.5 to 2 hours.
- Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
- Season to taste with salt, pepper, and light brown sugar.
- Remove the ham hock or bone, cool it, and shred the meat from the bone.
- Add the shredded ham back to the pot and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes.
Serving
- Ladle the warm soup into bowls and serve with crusty bread or crackers.
Notes
Store leftovers in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Reheat on stovetop or microwave. Soup can be frozen for later use.