Smoked ham with new potatoes

Smoked ham hock with beans and roasted potatoes - A rustic recipe full of flavor

Total preparation time: 1 hour and 10 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Roasting time: 30 minutes
Number of servings: 4

A journey into the world of taste

This recipe for smoked ham hock with potatoes is a true feast for those who love authentic flavors and traditional dishes. The smoked hock, with its tender and flavorful meat, perfectly complements the roasted potatoes, creating a dish that delights at any meal. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or a gathering with friends, this dish is sure to be the star of the evening.

The ingredients are the foundation of any successful recipe, and for this delicacy we will need:

- 300-400 g smoked ham hock (or more if you feel like indulging)
- 1 kg small new potatoes (for a finer texture)
- 1 large white onion (for a sweet and aromatic taste)
- ½ bunch of fresh dill (an explosion of freshness)
- Olive oil (for a touch of health and flavor)
- Spices: vegeta, pepper, ginger, chili (for a spicy taste, to your preference)

Preparing the smoked ham hock

The first step is to take care of the smoked ham hock, the star of the recipe. Cut the hock into suitable pieces, depending on how large you want the servings. Place the pieces in a pot of water and let them boil over medium heat for about 40 minutes. This process will not only help the meat become tender but will also release delicious flavors into the water.

Once boiled, drain the pieces of ham hock and prepare to roast them. In a wok pan, add a little olive oil and let it heat up. Place the pieces of hock in the pan and fry them for a few minutes on each side until they turn slightly golden. This step will intensify the flavor and give a crispy texture. Then remove them onto a plate and let them rest.

Preparing the potatoes

New potatoes are an excellent choice for this dish. Wash them well under running water to remove any impurities. Cut them in half and boil them in a pot of water with salt for about 10 minutes. Don't leave them too long, as we want to maintain their firmness. Once boiled, drain them well and transfer them to the wok pan where you roasted the hock. Let them roast a bit, being careful not to add too much oil.

Assembling the dish

Now comes the most exciting part! Place the fried pieces of hock over the roasted potatoes in the pan. Add the finely chopped onion, which will bring a sweet and aromatic note to the dish. Then pour in the broth in which you boiled the hock, enough to cover the ingredients. Cover the pan and let it simmer on low heat, so that the flavors blend perfectly. This step is essential for achieving a truly savory dish.

Once the broth has reduced, add your favorite spices: vegeta, pepper, ginger, and chili, to taste. Finally, don't forget to sprinkle the finely chopped dill, which will add a touch of freshness and a pleasant appearance to the dish.

Serving and suggestions

The smoked ham hock with roasted potatoes is served hot, alongside assorted pickles, which add an excellent contrast of textures and flavors. You can opt for pickled cucumbers or sauerkraut, which will perfectly complement the rich taste of the dish.

For an even more enjoyable culinary experience, you can accompany this dish with a glass of dry red wine or a pale lager, which will highlight the flavors of the smoked hock.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use fresh hock instead of smoked hock?
- Yes, but the cooking time will change. Fresh hock requires a longer boiling time to become tender.

2. How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
- You can replace the smoked hock with a mixture of vegetables and mushrooms, adding your favorite spices to achieve a rich flavor.

3. What other side dishes can I use?
- Besides pickles, this dish also pairs well with a summer salad or green bean dish.

Nutritional benefits

Smoked hock is a good source of protein, while potatoes are rich in complex carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals. Dill is known for its digestive properties. This recipe is an excellent choice for a hearty meal, but don't forget to consume in moderation due to the higher sodium content in smoked hock.

Possible variations

To add a touch of originality, you can experiment with different types of hock, such as pork or turkey hock. You can also add vegetables like carrots or peppers, which will enrich the dish with vitamins and flavor.

So, I invite you to venture into making this rustic delight and enjoy every bite! Bon appétit!