Bean soup with smoked ham hock

Bean soup with smoked ham hock - a traditional recipe, full of flavor, that will bring joy and warmth to every home. This soup is not just a simple dish; it is a story in every spoonful, a combination of ingredients that blend harmoniously and evoke thoughts of family Sunday meals. Let’s begin the culinary journey!

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Total: 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 500 g speckled beans
- 1-1.2 kg boiled and smoked ham hock
- 1-2 carrots
- 1 parsnip
- 2 onions
- 1 red bell pepper
- 4-5 tomatoes
- 2 cubes of smoked bacon or mushrooms (optional)
- 1 small bunch of dill
- 20 ml oil
- A few sprigs of parsley
- A few sprigs of lovage
- Salt, pepper, curry, paprika, thyme, bay leaves

A bit of history

Bean soup with ham hock is a dish that is part of the culinary tradition of many cultures, often associated with festive moments and family gatherings. Beans, a staple ingredient, symbolize wealth and abundance, while the smoked ham hock adds a deep, hearty flavor. This recipe is not just a meal, but a way to bring people together.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Preparing the beans
Start by washing the speckled beans well under cold running water. Then, soak the beans in cold water for at least 6-8 hours or, ideally, overnight. This step is important as it helps the beans soften and cook faster.

2. Boiling the ham hock
The next day, drain the beans and place them in a large pot along with the smoked ham hock. Add 4 liters of cold water and bring everything to a boil. Let it simmer on low heat for 60-80 minutes, until the meat is tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

3. Preparing the vegetables
In the meantime, peel and chop the carrots, parsnip, onions, and red bell pepper. If you are using fresh tomatoes, blanch them to remove the skin. Cut them into cubes. These vegetables will not only add flavor but also color to your soup.

4. Sautéing the vegetables
In a pan, heat the oil and add the carrots and parsnip. Sauté them for 3-4 minutes, then add the onion and bell pepper. Continue to sauté until the vegetables are golden and the flavors develop. Add the smoked bacon cubes or mushrooms if you choose to use them, along with the diced tomatoes.

5. Adding the vegetables to the soup
Once the vegetables are sautéed, add them to the pot with the beans and ham hock. Add 2-3 bay leaves, chopped dill, thyme, curry, paprika, and pepper. Season with salt to taste. Allow the soup to simmer on low heat for another 20-30 minutes, so the flavors meld perfectly.

6. Finishing the soup
After the soup has cooked, remove the ham hock from the pot. Portion the meat into smaller pieces and place some of it in the serving bowl. Add the chopped lovage and parsley to the soup, stir well, and let it simmer for an additional 5 minutes.

Serving suggestions

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is served hot, garnished with fresh lovage leaves. It can be accompanied by a slice of homemade bread, which will make every bite even more enjoyable. Additionally, for an extra flavor boost, you can add a spoonful of sour cream when serving.

Interesting variations

If you want to experiment, you can replace the ham hock with smoked chicken or turkey for a lighter version. You can also add some corn kernels or potatoes to make the soup even heartier. If you prefer a spicier flavor, add some freshly chopped hot pepper.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, while the smoked ham hock adds animal protein and a rich taste. This soup is not only delicious but also nourishing, making it ideal for cold winter days.

Frequently asked questions

1. Is it necessary to soak the beans before cooking?
Yes, soaking the beans reduces cooking time and helps with digestion.

2. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, but the soup will have a different texture and the cooking time will be shorter. Add the beans to the soup in the last 10 minutes of cooking.

3. How can I store the soup?
The soup can be stored in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. It can be frozen for a longer period, making it an excellent choice for meals prepared in advance.

4. What drinks pair well with this soup?
A pale lager or a dry white wine can perfectly complement the rich flavors of the soup.

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is more than just a simple dish; it is a culinary experience that combines tradition, flavor, and family warmth. Whether you prepare it for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a delicious meal, this recipe will not disappoint. Enjoy your meal!

 Ingredients: 500 g speckled beans, 1-1.2 kg boiled and smoked ham hock, 1-2 carrots, 1 parsnip, 2 onions, 1 red bell pepper, 4-5 tomatoes, 2 cubes/teaspoons smoked bacon/mushrooms, 1 small bunch of dill, 20 ml oil, a few sprigs of parsley and lovage, salt, pepper, curry, paprika, thyme, bay leaves.