Bean soup with smoked ham hock
Smoked Ham Hock Bean Stew – A Traditional Recipe That Blends History with Authentic Flavor
Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
If you’re looking to discover a recipe that brings together tradition and flavor, I invite you to make smoked ham hock bean stew. This dish has long been a true symbol of conviviality, cherished by soldiers in barracks and now a staple on December 1st celebrations. It’s a recipe that combines simple ingredients with cooking techniques passed down through generations. Here’s how to bring this delicious dish to your table, step by step.
Necessary ingredients:
- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 750 g)
- 500 g dried, fresh beans
- 3 yellow onions
- 2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 1 red bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons oil
- 2 bay leaves
- Thyme, to taste
- 1 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1 teaspoon hot paprika
- Pepper, to taste
- 5-6 liters of water
- Salt, to taste
- 3 fresh tomatoes
- 2 celery stalks with leaves
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
Preparing the beans:
1. Preparing the beans: Start by thoroughly rinsing the beans in two waters. It’s important to soak them in cold water overnight to ensure they hydrate properly. This will help shorten the cooking time and make the beans easier to digest. If the beans are older, you can add a pinch of baking soda to the boiling water to help soften them.
2. Initial boiling: The next day, drain the beans and rinse them again with warm water. Place them in fresh water, covering them completely, and bring to a boil. Once boiling, drain the water again and rinse the beans. Repeat this process twice, then add fresh water and let them simmer over medium heat, covered.
Preparing the ham hock:
3. Boiling the ham hock: Rinse the smoked ham hock in hot water, then place it in a separate pot, covering it with water. Let it boil until the meat is nearly falling off the bone, which can take between 1 to 1.5 hours.
Adding the vegetables:
4. Preparing the vegetables: While the beans and ham hock are boiling, peel and chop the vegetables (carrots, parsnip, and red bell pepper) to your preferred size, either large cubes or smaller pieces. Set aside two onions for later use, and add the other two to the beans.
5. Adding the vegetables to the beans: When the beans start to soften, add the chopped vegetables, bay leaves, thyme, and let them simmer together for about 15 minutes.
Assembling the dish:
6. Finalizing the stew: Once the vegetables have softened, add the ham hock along with the broth it cooked in. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and sweet and hot paprika, according to your preference.
7. Preparing the sauce: In a separate pan, sauté the reserved onions in a little oil, salt, and pepper. Once they become translucent, add the peeled and blended tomatoes. Let the sauce simmer for 7-8 minutes, then pour it over the beans in the pot. Stir well and let it cook over medium heat for another 5-6 minutes.
8. Final touches: Finally, add the chopped parsley and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving.
Serving:
Smoked ham hock bean stew is served hot, accompanied by red, yellow, or green onions, and for an extra kick, you can add fresh chili peppers. This dish is perfect for enjoying with family, bringing warmth and joy on chilly winter days.
Helpful tips:
- The beans can be kept in the refrigerator in water to maintain their freshness.
- You can experiment with different types of smoked meat, such as a piece of bacon, to achieve various flavors.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, you can add chili flakes or fresh chili peppers to the tomato sauce.
Nutritional benefits:
Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making them ideal for a healthy diet. The smoked ham hock adds a rich and savory flavor, balancing the dish beautifully.
Frequently asked questions:
1. Can the smoked ham hock bean stew be made without meat?
Yes, you can prepare a vegetarian version using vegetables and spices to enhance the flavor.
2. How can I store leftover beans?
Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3-4 days or frozen for later consumption.
3. What other dishes pair well with it?
Smoked ham hock bean stew pairs nicely with polenta or a fresh salad, providing a perfect contrast of textures and flavors.
With this smoked ham hock bean stew recipe, you will not only bring a delicious dish to the table but also keep alive the vibrant tradition of recipes passed down through generations. Savor every bite and enjoy the moments spent with loved ones!
Ingredients: 1 smoked ham hock (750 g) 500 g dried beans, new 3 yellow onions 2 carrots 1 parsnip 1 red bell pepper 2 tablespoons oil 2 bay leaves thyme hot paprika sweet paprika pepper 5-6 l water salt to taste 3 garden tomatoes 2 celery stalks with leaves 1 bunch of fresh parsley
