Bean soup with smoked ham hock

Bean soup with smoked ham hock - A journey to the heart of Transylvania

Total preparation time: 1 hour
Cooking time: 30-40 minutes
Number of servings: 4-6

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is a traditional Romanian dish that brings together simple yet flavorful ingredients. It is a meal that not only soothes the soul but also connects us with the traditions and customs from the heart of the country. With each spoonful, we feel the smoky aroma of the ham hock intertwining with the sweetness of the beans, creating a symphony of flavors that delights our taste buds. Let's discover together how we can prepare this delicacy!

Ingredients

- 1 smoked ham hock (approximately 800g)
- 2 large onions
- 300g red beans (or white beans, according to preference)
- 100g carrots (approximately 1-2 carrots)
- 3 tablespoons of flour
- 1 cup of tomato juice (approximately 250ml)
- 1-2 tablespoons of oil (preferably sunflower oil)
- 1-2 tablespoons of vinegar (optional, for a tangy taste)
- Sweet paprika (to taste)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Lovage (dried or fresh, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley (for garnish)

Preparation

Step 1: Preparing the ingredients
Start by washing the beans under cold water, then soak them for 4-6 hours or ideally overnight. This will reduce cooking time and make the beans easier to digest. If you're short on time, you can opt for canned beans, but the flavor of the dish will be different.

Step 2: Boiling the beans and ham hock
After the beans have soaked, place them in a large pot, add the smoked ham hock, and enough water to cover the ingredients. Boil everything over medium heat, removing the foam that forms on the surface. The red beans will be ready in 30-40 minutes, but for other types of beans, cooking time may vary. Cook until the beans are tender.

Step 3: Preparing the soup base
In a separate pan, chop the onion and carrots. Heat the oil in a deep pot and add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, then add the carrots. Continue to sauté for a few minutes until the carrots soften.

Step 4: Flavoring the soup
Once the onion and carrot are sautéed, add salt, pepper, and sweet paprika, mixing well to release the spices' aromas. Now it's time to add the flour, continuously stirring with a whisk to avoid lumps. This step will give the soup a creamy appearance.

Step 5: Combining the ingredients
Add the tomato juice to the onion and carrot mixture, then add the boiled beans (with a bit of cooking water) and the smoked ham hock cut into pieces. Mix everything well, then add the lovage and, if you want a tangy taste, the vinegar. Let the soup simmer over low heat for 10-15 minutes for the flavors to meld.

Step 6: Serving
Bean soup with smoked ham hock is perfect served hot, sprinkled with freshly chopped parsley. You can add a spoonful of sour cream on top for extra creaminess. This soup pairs wonderfully with warm homemade bread or polenta.

Practical tips

1. Beans: If you prefer an easier cooking option, you can use canned beans, but choose a high-quality one for better taste.
2. Ham hock: Choose a ham hock with plenty of meat and little fat for a rich soup. You can also use smoked meat from other parts, but the ham hock provides a unique flavor.
3. Spices: Play with the spices! You can add a pinch of thyme or allspice to enhance the aroma.
4. Variations: For a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham hock and add cubes of smoked tofu or seasonal vegetables.
5. Storage: The soup keeps well in the fridge for 2-3 days and can be frozen, but it tastes best when consumed fresh.

Nutritional benefits

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is not only delicious but also nutritious. Beans are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and antioxidants, while the smoked ham hock adds a supply of proteins and essential minerals. This soup is an excellent choice for a hearty meal, especially on cool days.

Frequently asked questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the soup.

2. What type of vinegar is best?
White wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar are the most common choices, but you can experiment with balsamic vinegar for a different taste.

3. Can I add other vegetables?
Sure! Potatoes, celery, or bell pepper are excellent options that can enrich the soup.

Serving suggestions

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is popular among comfort foods, and an excellent accompaniment is a pickled cabbage salad or a beet salad, which will provide a pleasant contrast of textures and flavors. For those who prefer a drink, a craft beer or a light red wine can perfectly complement the meal.

A personal note

Bean soup with smoked ham hock is not just a recipe, but a childhood memory when every Sunday was marked by the inviting smell of this soup wafting throughout the house. Each serving is like a warm hug, perfect for gathering the family around the table. I invite you to prepare this soup and create your own memories around it, to share with loved ones and enjoy every bite!

Enjoy your meal and happy cooking!

 Ingredients: 1 smoked ham hock, 2 onions, 300 g red beans, 100 g carrots, sweet paprika, salt and pepper, lovage for the soup (in a packet), parsley, 3 tbsp flour, 1 cup tomato juice

 Tags:  bean soup smoked ham