bean soup with ham hocks recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
Jump to Recipe Jump to Video Print Recipe
Table of Contents▼

The Best bean soup with ham hocks recipe

I love making bean soup with ham hocks for my family. It’s a hearty, comforting dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. The smoky flavor of the ham hocks pairs perfectly with the tender beans and vegetables.

My kids always ask for seconds, and I’m happy to oblige. I’ve been making this recipe for years, and it never fails to impress. The best part is that it’s incredibly easy to make and can be adapted to suit our dietary needs.

I like to use dried beans, which are easier to digest than canned beans and can be soaked overnight to reduce cooking time. My family loves this recipe because it’s a classic comfort food that reminds us of home-cooked meals from our childhood. We’ve even served it at family gatherings and potlucks, where it’s always a hit.

The key to making great bean soup is using high-quality ingredients and taking the time to simmer the beans until they’re tender. I like to use a combination of beef broth and water to give the soup a rich, savory flavor. This recipe makes enough for 6-8 people, so it’s perfect for large families or groups.

Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, bean soup with ham hocks is always a good idea.

Classic Bean Soup with Ham Hocks

Classic Bean Soup with Ham Hocks

4.9 from 543 votes

A hearty and comforting bean soup made with tender ham hocks, perfect for a cold day. This soup is packed with flavor and has a rich, savory broth.

Prep Time20 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 50 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb dried navy beans
2 ham hocks
1 large onion, chopped
3 carrots, chopped
3 celery stalks, chopped
1 bell pepper, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp dried thyme
1 tsp dried oregano
1 bay leaf
8 cups water
2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried beans and pick out any debris.
2Place the beans in a large pot or Dutch oven and cover with water.
3Let them soak for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4Drain and rinse the beans before using.
5Place the ham hocks in the same pot and cover with 8 cups of water.
6Bring to a boil over high heat.
7Reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the ham hocks are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
8Remove the ham hocks from the pot and set aside to cool.
9Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and discard the bones and skin.
10In the same pot with the ham broth, add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, and bell pepper.
11Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.
12Add the minced garlic, thyme, oregano, and bay leaf to the pot.
13Cook for an additional 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
14Add the drained and rinsed beans to the pot.
15Stir in the salt and black pepper.
16Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1 hour, or until the beans are tender and the soup has thickened slightly.
17Stir in the shredded ham meat and cook for an additional 10 minutes.
18Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary.
19Remove the bay leaf before serving.
20Ladle the soup into bowls and serve hot.
21Enjoy with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 7g❤️Cholesterol: 50mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 40g🥦Dietary Fiber: 10g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 30g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier soup, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeno. You can also add other vegetables like corn or potatoes for extra heartiness.

Watch Video Of How Classic Bean Soup with Ham Hocks Works

Bean soup with ham hocks is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed year-round. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a comforting meal for a family gathering. It is a great recipe to make in large batches and freeze for later.

You can also customize it by adding your favorite vegetables or spices. The slow cooking process ensures that the flavors are deeply infused into the beans, making each bite rich and satisfying. It is a comforting and delicious dish that your family will love.

The leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, you can warm it on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through. This soup is a great way to use up leftover ham hocks and create a hearty, satisfying meal.

It is a classic dish that never disappoints and is always a good idea for any occasion, from a quick weeknight dinner to a family gathering.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Bean Soup with Ham Hocks

Q1: What type of beans should I use in this recipe?

I recommend using dried navy beans or pinto beans for this recipe. Both types have a mild flavor and tender texture that holds up well to long simmering.

Q2: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans if you prefer. However, keep in mind that they may not have the same texture as dried beans.

Q3: How do I store leftover bean soup?

Store leftover bean soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze for up to 2 months.

Q4: Can I reheat bean soup on the stovetop?

Yes, you can reheat bean soup on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Q5: Is bean soup with ham hocks suitable for vegetarians?

No, this recipe contains ham hocks which are not suitable for vegetarians.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

Similar Posts