There’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm bowl of homemade soup, and this White Bean and Ham Hock Soup is a classic that brings together the hearty flavors of smoked ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner, and it’s a great way to use up leftover ham or a ham hock. The soup is not only delicious but also budget-friendly and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 lb dried white beans (such as navy or cannellini beans)
- 1 large smoked ham hock or leftover ham bone
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 8 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Start by rinsing the dried beans under cold water, removing any debris or broken beans. Soak the beans in a large bowl of water overnight, or for at least 8 hours. This will help soften the beans and reduce cooking time. If you’re short on time, you can use the quick-soak method: place the beans in a pot, cover with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them soak for 1 hour.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables start to soften and the onions become translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Ham Hock and Seasonings
Add the ham hock (or ham bone) to the pot, nestling it among the vegetables. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, oregano, black pepper, and bay leaf. These herbs add a wonderful depth of flavor to the soup.
Step 4: Add the Broth and Beans
Drain and rinse the soaked beans, then add them to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth or water, ensuring that the beans and ham hock are fully submerged. If needed, add more broth or water to cover everything.
Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the ham hock is falling apart. Stir occasionally and check the beans for doneness.
Step 6: Shred the Ham
Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot and place it on a cutting board. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat, discarding any fat or bone. Return the shredded ham to the soup and stir to combine.
Step 7: Adjust the Seasoning
Taste the soup and season with salt and additional pepper as needed. Ham hocks can be quite salty, so it’s best to wait until this point to add any extra salt. If the soup is too thick, you can add a bit more broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
Step 8: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. The parsley adds a pop of color and a hint of freshness that balances the richness of the soup. Serve with crusty bread for a complete, comforting meal.
Tips for Success
- Ham Hock vs. Ham Bone: A smoked ham hock adds a deep, smoky flavor to the soup, but you can also use a leftover ham bone. If using a ham bone, you might want to add some additional diced ham for extra meatiness.
- Broth Choices: While chicken broth is the traditional choice, you can also use vegetable broth for a different flavor profile, or simply use water if you’re aiming for a lighter soup.
- Vegetable Variations: Feel free to add other vegetables like diced potatoes, parsnips, or leeks to customize the soup to your liking.
- Slow Cooker Option: If you prefer, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply sauté the vegetables as directed, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the beans are tender.
- Make-Ahead and Freezing: This soup tastes even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead of time. It also freezes well, so you can store leftovers in the freezer for up to three months.
Final Thoughts
This Homemade White Bean and Ham Hock Soup is a timeless dish that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. It’s a hearty, satisfying meal that’s perfect for chilly days or whenever you need a bowl of comfort. The smoky ham, tender beans, and savory broth come together in a way that’s both simple and soul-warming. Whether you’re serving it to guests or enjoying it with your family, this soup is a winner every time. Enjoy!
