Bean stew with smoked ham hock

Bean stew with smoked ham hock

Share a warm and comforting meal with this delicious recipe for bean stew with smoked ham hock. It is a traditional dish, full of flavor and rich in nutrients, that will bring not only taste but also a story to your table. This recipe is perfect for chilly days or gatherings with family and friends, making it an excellent choice for both lunch and dinner. Let's get started!

Total time: 2 hours
Preparation time: 40 minutes
Cooking time: 1 hour and 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Ingredients

- 1 kg large white beans
- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 1 kg)
- 1 kg fresh tomatoes
- 2 large carrots
- 1 large onion
- 1 small onion
- 4-5 garlic cloves
- 1 celery stalk (optional)
- 2-3 bay leaves
- 1-2 tablespoons dried thyme
- 1 bunch of dill (or parsley)
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste

Ingredient details

- Beans: Choose high-quality large white beans for a pleasant texture. It’s best to soak them overnight to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility.
- Smoked ham hock: Opt for a well-smoked pork hock, which will add a deep, rich flavor to the dish.
- Tomatoes: Use fresh, seasonal tomatoes for a vibrant and flavorful sauce. If fresh tomatoes are unavailable, canned tomatoes can be used.
- Vegetables: Onion, carrots, and celery bring sweetness and aroma, while garlic provides an unmistakable flavor.

Step by step: Preparing the bean stew

1. Start with the beans: Rinse the beans well and soak them in cold water overnight. This method helps soften the beans and reduce cooking time.

2. Boiling the beans: The next day, drain the beans and place them in fresh water to boil. Boil the beans in two waters. This means that after they start boiling, discard the first water and add clean water. Then, put the beans in a pressure cooker along with the smoked ham hock, one large onion, carrots, and celery (if using). Close the pot and, when it starts to whistle, let it cook for 20 minutes.

3. Preparing the sauce: While the beans are boiling, finely chop the small onion and sauté it in a pan with a little olive oil until golden. Add blended tomatoes, stirring constantly. This sauce will be the delicious base of the stew.

4. Final combination: Once the beans are cooked, add them to the pan along with the deboned ham hock (cut into cubes), and pour in the cooking liquid until you reach the desired consistency. Add the bay leaves, thyme, and let everything simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes.

5. Seasoning: Finally, add the garlic sauce, dill (or parsley), and season with salt and pepper. Let it boil for another 2-3 minutes, and your stew is ready!

Serving and suggestions

The bean stew with smoked ham hock is delicious served warm, alongside a generous portion of roasted peppers drizzled with olive oil, vinegar, and garlic sauce. This combination adds a fresh and tangy note, perfect for complementing the rich flavor of the stew.

Useful tips

- Variations: You can add other vegetables, such as zucchini or bell peppers, to enrich the dish. You can also replace the ham hock with chicken or turkey for a lighter version.
- For a more intense flavor: If you prefer a smokier taste, you can add a few slices of smoked bacon during cooking.
- Storage: The stew keeps well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days and can also be frozen for a quick meal later.

Nutritional benefits

Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and B vitamins, which contribute to digestive health and maintaining a strong immune system. The smoked ham hock adds protein and a savory flavor, but consume it in moderation due to its fat content.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use canned beans?: Yes, but make sure to rinse them well to remove excess sodium.
- What can I do with leftovers?: You can use leftover stew to create a puree or soup, adding water and spices to taste.
- Is it suitable for vegans?: You can adapt the recipe by omitting the ham hock and using additional vegetables and spices to add flavor.

This recipe for bean stew with smoked ham hock is not only a nourishing dish but also a way to bring family and friends together. So, don’t hesitate to try it and enjoy every bite!

 Ingredients: 1 kg large beans, 1 smoked ham hock, about 1 kg, 1 kg fresh tomatoes, 2 large carrots, 1 large onion and 1 smaller one, garlic, thyme, bay leaf, dill (parsley)

 Tags:  soup bean stew beans sausage pastrama paprika pepper onion thyme bay leaf flour christmas christmas recipes