Ham Hock Soup is a comforting and hearty dish that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you’re craving something warm and filling. Made with tender ham hocks, vegetables, and savory broth, this soup is both flavorful and satisfying. It’s a great way to use inexpensive cuts of meat while creating a rich, soul-soothing meal.
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Ingredients
- Instructions
- Cook Notes & Tips
- Variations
- Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- Conclusion
Introduction
Ham Hock Soup is the epitome of comfort food. It’s a dish that brings together tender, slow-cooked ham hocks, fresh vegetables, and hearty beans in a savory broth. The smoky, rich flavor of ham hocks gives this soup its distinctive taste, making it an instant family favorite. This recipe is perfect for using pantry staples and creating a meal that’s both budget-friendly and nourishing. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete and comforting meal.
Ingredients
- 2 smoked ham hocks
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 ribs celery, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 can (15 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup dried split peas or navy beans (rinsed and drained)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Sear the Ham Hocks: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the ham hocks and sear them for about 4-5 minutes per side, until browned. This helps to develop flavor.
- Cook the Vegetables: Remove the ham hocks from the pot and set aside. In the same pot, add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the vegetables are softened and the onion is translucent.
- Add the Broth and Beans: Return the ham hocks to the pot. Add the dried thyme, bay leaf, broth, diced tomatoes, and split peas or navy beans. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 2-2.5 hours, or until the ham hocks are tender and the beans are cooked through. Stir occasionally to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom.
- Remove the Ham Hocks: Once the ham hocks are tender, remove them from the pot. Let them cool slightly, then shred the meat, discarding the bones and excess fat. Return the shredded meat to the soup.
- Season and Serve: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaf, and garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread.
Cook Notes & Tips
- Bean Soaking: If you prefer using dried navy beans, you can soak them overnight for quicker cooking. However, split peas do not require soaking.
- Consistency: If you prefer a thicker soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend part of the soup, or mash some of the beans with a fork.
- Storage: This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Variations
- Vegetable Addition: Add chopped potatoes or sweet potatoes for extra heartiness.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a bit of heat.
- Herbaceous Flavor: Add a sprig of rosemary or a few fresh thyme sprigs for more herbal flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I Make This Soup in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for the slow cooker. After searing the ham hocks and sautéing the vegetables, transfer everything to a slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the ham hocks are tender.
2. How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until warmed through.
3. Can I Use a Different Type of Meat?
Yes, smoked turkey legs or even a leftover ham bone with some meat attached can be used as a substitute for ham hocks.
Ham Hock Soup is a deliciously comforting dish that’s rich in flavor and simple to make. The smoky ham, tender vegetables, and hearty beans come together to create a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. Whether you make it on the stovetop or adapt it for the slow cooker, this soup is sure to bring warmth and comfort to your table.
Serve it with a slice of crusty bread, and enjoy the cozy, home-cooked goodness of Ham Hock Soup.
Happy Cooking!