Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

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Are you craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul?

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Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup
Prep
25 min
Cook
2 hr 15 min
Total
7 hr 40 min
Servings
12

Method

  1. Rinse and separate the navy beans.

  2. Place the navy beans in a Dutch oven and add 8 cups of water.

  3. Bring the water to a boil and let it boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat.

  4. Cover the Dutch oven and let the beans sit for about 5 hours until they are softened.

  5. Drain the navy beans and discard the liquid used for soaking.

  6. Rinse the beans again and return them to the Dutch oven.

  7. Add ham hocks, chicken broth, 4 cups of water, onion, parsley, garlic powder, basil, black pepper, oregano, nutmeg, and bay leaves to the Dutch oven.

  8. Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 1 1/2 hours until the beans are tender.

  9. Mix in the carrots, celery, and potato flakes until well combined.

  10. Cover the Dutch oven and continue to simmer for about 30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.

  11. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and place them on a cutting board to cool.

  12. Once the ham hocks are cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bones and cut it into bite-sized pieces.

  13. Return the meat to the pot and heat it through over medium heat for about 3 minutes.

  14. If desired, you can substitute hickory ham bones with some meat for the ham h

About this recipe

Are you craving a warm and comforting bowl of soup that will satisfy your taste buds and warm your soul? Look no further than navy bean and ham hock soup! This hearty and flavorful dish is the perfect combination of tender navy beans and smoky ham hock, creating a delicious and satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more.

The Magic of Navy Beans

Navy beans, also known as haricot beans, are small, white beans that are packed with nutrients and flavor. These little powerhouses are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential minerals like potassium and iron. When cooked, navy beans become creamy and tender, making them the perfect base for a comforting soup.

The Smoky Goodness of Ham Hocks

Ham hocks are the secret ingredient that takes this soup to the next level. These flavorful cuts of pork add a smoky and savory taste to the soup, infusing every bite with deliciousness. As the soup simmers, the ham hocks release their rich flavors, creating a broth that is robust and full-bodied.

The Perfect Pairing

Just like a dynamic duo, navy beans and ham hocks are a match made in culinary heaven. The creamy texture of the beans complements the smoky flavor of the ham hocks, creating a soup that is both comforting and satisfying. It's a combination that will have you coming back for seconds.

How to Make Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Making navy bean and ham hock soup is easier than you might think. Start by soaking the navy beans overnight to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. Once soaked, drain and rinse the beans before adding them to a large pot with water or broth.

Next, add the ham hocks, along with aromatic vegetables like onions, carrots, and celery. These veggies add depth of flavor to the soup and complement the beans and ham hocks perfectly. Season the soup with herbs and spices like bay leaves, thyme, and black pepper to enhance the overall taste.

Simmer the soup on low heat for several hours until the beans are creamy and tender, and the ham hocks are falling off the bone. As the soup cooks, the flavors will meld together, creating a rich and delicious broth that is full of smoky goodness.

Serving Suggestions

Once the soup is ready, it's time to serve and enjoy! Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for a burst of freshness. Serve with crusty bread or cornbread on the side for a complete and satisfying meal.

Frequently asked questions

. Can I use canned beans instead of dried navy beans?

While canned beans are a convenient option, using dried navy beans will give the soup a better texture and flavor. The beans will become tender and creamy during the long cooking process, resulting in a more satisfying soup.

. Can I substitute ham hocks with other cuts of pork?

Ham hocks provide a unique smoky flavor to the soup that can't be replicated with other cuts of pork. However, if you can't find ham hocks, you can use smoked ham or bacon to add a similar smoky taste.

. How long does it take to soak the navy beans?

Navy beans should be soaked overnight for at least 8 hours to ensure they cook evenly and become tender. If you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method by bringing the beans to a boil, letting them sit for 1 hour, and then draining and rinsing before cooking.

. Can I freeze navy bean and ham hock soup?

Yes, navy bean and ham hock soup freezes well. Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw the soup in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

. Can I add other vegetables to the soup?

Absolutely! Navy bean and ham hock soup can be customized to your liking. Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes, tomatoes, or spinach to add more flavor and nutrition to the soup.

. Can I make navy bean and ham hock soup in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this soup in a slow cooker. Simply follow the same steps of soaking the beans and adding all the ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 4-6 hours until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.

. Is navy bean and ham hock soup gluten-free?

Yes, navy bean and ham hock soup is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free ingredients. Be sure to check the labels of any packaged broth or seasonings to ensure they are gluten-free.

. Can I make navy bean and ham hock soup vegetarian or vegan?

While navy bean and ham hock soup traditionally includes ham hocks, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version by omitting the ham hocks and using vegetable broth instead of water. Add extra vegetables and herbs to enhance the flavor.

In conclusion, navy bean and ham hock soup is a classic dish that combines the creaminess of navy beans with the smoky goodness of ham hocks. This hearty and flavorful soup is perfect for warming up on a chilly day or enjoying as a comforting meal. With a few simple ingredients and a little time, you can create a bowl of soup that will satisfy your cravings and leave you feeling nourished. So why not give navy bean and ham hock soup a try? Your taste buds will thank you!

AprilCook, recipe developer and the heart of Chefwiz. More about April

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