Perfect for Chilly Days: Delicious White Bean & Ham Hock Soup

Photo byAngie Bright

White Bean & Ham Hock Soup: A Hearty Bowl of Comfort

As the days grow cooler, nothing warms the body and soul quite like a bowl of hearty soup. White Bean & Ham Hock Soup is a classic dish that brings together the rich, savory flavor of ham hock with the creamy texture of perfectly cooked navy beans. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, offering both comfort and nourishment, making it perfect for a cozy family dinner or a simple, satisfying lunch.

This soup has deep roots in many cultures, where beans and smoked meats have long been staples for creating filling, budget-friendly meals. The ham hock, known for its rich smoky flavor, adds depth to this dish, while the white beans absorb all the wonderful flavors during the long simmering process. Together, they create a perfect balance of heartiness and flavor.

The Secret to Perfect Soup

One of the keys to making a great White Bean & Ham Hock Soup is patience. By allowing the beans to soak and slowly simmering the soup for a few hours, you give the flavors time to meld together and create something truly special. The result is a soup with tender beans, perfectly seasoned broth, and chunks of flavorful ham from the hock that fall right off the bone.

Below is a simple yet flavorful recipe to recreate this comforting dish at home.

White Bean & Ham Hock Soup Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb dried navy beans (soaked for at least 3 hours)
• 1 large ham hock
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 8 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tbsp vinegar (optional)
• 1/2 stick of butter
• 1 pinch sugar (optional)

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: Begin by soaking the navy beans for at least 3 hours, preferably overnight, to soften them. After soaking, rinse the beans under cold water, removing any debris or stones, and set them aside.
2. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large soup pot, heat a bit of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the vegetables are soft. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
3. Add Ham Hock and Beans: Place the ham hock in the pot alongside the sautéed vegetables. Add the drained beans to the pot as well.
4. Pour in Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, making sure to cover the ham hock and beans. Add the bay leaf and thyme, along with salt, pepper, red pepper flakes, vinegar, butter, and a pinch of sugar (if using). Stir to combine the ingredients.
5. Simmer: Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until the beans are tender and the meat from the ham hock is falling off the bone. Stir occasionally to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove the Ham Hock: Once the soup is done simmering, carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Let it cool slightly before shredding the meat from the bone. Discard any excess fat or bones, and return the shredded ham to the soup.
7. Final Adjustments: Taste the soup and adjust the seasonings if necessary, adding more salt or pepper as desired. Remove the bay leaf before serving.

A Bowl of Comfort

This White Bean & Ham Hock Soup is more than just a meal; it’s a reminder of home-cooked warmth and care. The slow cooking process results in a bowl filled with tender beans, succulent ham, and a rich, savory broth that will warm you from the inside out. The addition of a little vinegar, red pepper flakes, and a touch of butter gives the soup a balance of flavors that enhances the traditional taste without overwhelming it.

Whether you’re looking for a dish to share with family on a chilly evening or a meal to enjoy alone while savoring its rich, comforting flavors, this soup delivers. Serve it with some crusty bread or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a meal that’s as wholesome as it is delicious.

Here are some trusted sources you can refer to for the White Bean and Ham Hock Soup recipe:

1. Allrecipes: This version of the soup emphasizes the importance of slow-cooking the ham hock and soaking the navy beans to achieve a flavorful, hearty broth. They suggest adding ingredients like garlic powder, dried basil, and nutmeg for depth of flavor. The full recipe is available here​Allrecipes.
2. Williams Sonoma: This slow-cooker variation offers an easy method for cooking the beans and ham hocks, with fresh thyme and garlic enhancing the taste. It’s ideal if you're looking for a more hands-off preparation. You can explore the details here​Williams-Sonoma Taste.
3. Cristina's Kitchen: For those who enjoy cooking with an Instant Pot or pressure cooker, this recipe shortens the cooking time without sacrificing flavor. The beans and ham hock turn out tender and delicious in just about an hour. You can find this recipe here​Cristina's Kitchen.

These sources provide detailed instructions and tips to help you perfect your version of this classic comfort soup.