Bean soup with smoked ham hock

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is a traditional dish, full of flavor, that brings together the comfort of home-cooked taste and the richness of natural ingredients in a single pot. This recipe is ideal for cool days when a warm bowl of soup can turn any meal into a moment of joy.

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours and 30 minutes
Total time: 2 hours and 45 minutes
Number of servings: 6-8 servings

Ingredients:
- 300 g white beans
- 1 large onion
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon vegetable seasoning
- 1 teaspoon vinegar
- A sprig of fresh tarragon
- 4 liters of water
- One smoked ham hock (approximately 800 g - 1 kg)

Preparing the ingredients:
Start by washing the beans well under cold running water. Place the beans in a large bowl of water, letting them soak for about 3 hours or, ideally, overnight. This step is essential as it helps reduce cooking time and improves the digestibility of the beans.

Peel and finely chop the onion. Its aroma will add a deep flavor to the soup, so don’t overlook it!

Cooking the soup:
1. In a large pot, place the smoked ham hock in cold water. Let it simmer over medium heat for 30 minutes. This will help release the flavors from the meat and enrich the base of the soup.

2. After the ham hock has boiled, add the drained beans, chopped onion, vegetable seasoning, tomato paste, and salt to taste. I recommend waiting until the end to add salt, as the ham hock may already be salty.

3. Let the soup simmer on low heat for 2 hours. Check the consistency of the beans and ham hock occasionally using a fork: the beans should be soft, and the ham hock should fall easily from the bone.

4. When the ham hock is cooked, remove it from the pot, debone the meat, and cut it into small cubes. Return the meat to the pot, adding the vinegar and tarragon. Let it simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Helpful tips:
- If you want to improve the digestibility of the beans, you can boil them separately for 30 minutes before adding them to the ham hock. This method is often recommended and can make the soup easier to digest.
- Bean soup with smoked ham hock is often served with red onion, which adds a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast of textures.

Calories and nutritional benefits:
This soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein and fiber, which help maintain digestive health. The smoked ham hock adds extra protein and a rich flavor. A serving of bean soup with smoked ham hock contains approximately 300-400 calories, depending on the amount of meat used.

Possible variations:
- You can experiment with different types of beans, such as red beans or even chickpeas, to diversify the flavor and texture of the soup.
- If you prefer a spicier soup, add a bit of chili pepper or freshly ground black pepper.

Serving suggestions:
Bean soup with smoked ham hock pairs wonderfully with a slice of warm homemade bread. A bottle of dry white wine or a cold beer can perfectly complement family meals where all loved ones gather.

Frequently asked questions:
- How long can the soup be stored?
The soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days and can be frozen for longer storage.

- Is bean soup with smoked ham hock vegetarian?
No, this recipe contains smoked ham hock. You can adapt the recipe using vegetables or plant-based smoked alternatives for a vegetarian version.

In conclusion, bean soup with smoked ham hock is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that connects us to traditions and reminds us of moments spent with family. So put on your apron, prepare the ingredients, and let the aroma of this soup fill your home with warmth and joy!

 Ingredients: 300g white beans 1 onion 2 tablespoons of broth 1 teaspoon of seasoning 1 teaspoon of vinegar 1 sprig of tarragon 4 liters of water 1 larger smoked ham hock

 Tags:  soup bean smoked ham