Come across a bunch of ham hocks and have some spare time? Let’s make the most delicious pork dish ever or let’s make two at the same time!

Ingredients

Ham hock soup with beans

2 tablespoons / 20g Lard or cooking oil
2 medium / 300g Onions (diced)
2 medium / 150gCarrot (diced)
3 stalks / 150g Celery (diced)
3 teaspoons / 15g Salt (only if not cured ham hock is used)
3 cloves / 12g Garlic
1 teaspoon / 3g Black pepper
1 teaspoon / 2g Paprika
1 medium / 150g Tomato
2 lb / 1000g Ham hocks
1 lb / 500g Beans
8 cups / 2000g Water
Optional extra:
- Carrot (sliced)
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- …

Ham hock soup with vegetables

2 lb / 1000g Ham hock
1 medium / 150g Onion
½ piece / 50g Green pepper
3 cloves / 12g Garlic (crushed)
3 medium / 200g Carrots (whole)
1 medium / 150g Tomato
1 bunch / 30g Parsley
3 teaspoons / 15g Salt
1 teaspoon / 3g Black pepper (whole)
8 cups / 2000g Water
Vegetables to consider
- Carrot (sliced)
- Broccoli
- Brussels sprouts
- Cauliflower
- …

How to make Ham hocks soup

Ham hock soup with beans

Pour oil into a pot and on high heat saute the diced onion, celery, carrots and salt until the onion gets a glassy / translucent look for about 3 -5 minutes.
Mix in the diced garlic, black pepper, paprika and the ham hocks. If we have quick cooking beans or any other legumes like lentils, we have to precook the ham hock now. Pour water into to the pot until the ham hocks are submerged, bring it to boil and on low heat simmer them for an hour.
Add beans, tomatoes and fill the pot up with water until all the ingredients are submerged.
Put the lid on and bring the water to boil then simmer until the beans are ready on low heat which could be anywhere between 60 – 120 minutes. Optionally, add more vegetables to the soup like broccoli, brussel sprouts 10 minutes before finishing the soup.

Enjoy!

Ham hock soup with vegetables

Place all the ingredients into a pot.
Fill the pot up with water until all the ingredients are submerged.
Put the lid on bring the water to boil then on low heat simmer the soup for about 2 hours until the meat is tender and comes off the bones easily.
Add vegetables to the soup and cook them ready in about 10 minutes.

Enjoy!

Note: Once the ham hock is cooked it can be roasted under the broiler in 10 minutes that will serve as a perfect main meal. Cooking ham hock with vegetables is the perfect stock for later meals, store it in batches.

If ham hock was a joy check out some other mouthwatering happy feet that can be served at the table:

F.A.Q.

What are ham hock and beans?

Ham hock and beans are a classic dish made from smoked ham hock, which is a joint of pork from the pig’s leg, and dried beans, typically white beans or navy beans.

How are ham hock and beans prepared?

Ham hock and beans are prepared by soaking the dried beans overnight to rehydrate them. The ham hock is then added to a pot along with the beans, water, and various seasonings. The dish is slow-cooked until the beans are tender and infused with the flavors of the ham hock.

What is the role of the ham hock in this dish?

The ham hock serves as the main flavoring agent in the dish. As it cooks, the ham hock releases its smoky and savory flavors into the beans, giving them a rich and delicious taste. The meat from the ham hock also adds texture and depth to the dish.

Can other types of beans be used?

Yes, while white beans or navy beans are commonly used, we can experiment with different types of beans according to preference. Some popular alternatives include pinto beans, black beans, or kidney beans. Each type of bean will bring its own unique flavor and texture to the dish.

Are there any vegetarian or vegan alternatives to ham hock and beans?

Yes, there are vegetarian and vegan alternatives available. Instead of using ham hock, we can use smoked tofu or tempeh to achieve a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, liquid smoke or smoked paprika can be added to enhance the taste. Vegetable broth or mushroom broth can be used as a substitute for meat-based broth to cook the beans.

How long does it take to cook ham hock and beans?

The cooking time for ham hock and beans can vary depending on the recipe and the desired tenderness of the beans. Generally, it takes around 2 to 3 hours of simmering on low heat to fully cook the beans and allow the flavors to develop. However, some recipes may require longer cooking times for a richer taste.

What are some serving suggestions for ham hock and beans?

Ham hock and beans are often served as a main course accompanied by cornbread, rice, or crusty bread. We can also serve them with a side of greens, such as collard greens or steamed vegetables, to balance out the flavors. Garnishing with fresh herbs like parsley or a squeeze of lemon juice can add a refreshing touch.

Can ham hock and beans be made in advance?

Yes, ham hock and beans can be made in advance. In fact, the flavors often develop further if the dish is refrigerated overnight and reheated before serving. Store the cooked ham hock and beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave when ready to serve.

Are ham hock and beans a healthy dish?

Ham hock and beans can be a nutritious dish as it provides a good source of protein and dietary fiber from the beans. However, ham hock is high in sodium and fat, so it should be consumed in moderation, especially for individuals with dietary restrictions or health concerns. Using leaner cuts of ham or reducing the amount of ham hock can make the dish healthier.