Description
Ham and bean soup is a comforting classic that warms you from the inside out. With savory smoked ham hock and tender navy beans simmered to perfection, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to make. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy nights in, each spoonful bursts with flavor and nostalgia, making it a beloved favorite any time of year.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 cup dried navy beans (soaked overnight)
- 1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb)
- 2 medium carrots (chopped)
- 2 stalks celery (diced)
- 1 medium onion (chopped)
- 4 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 bay leaves
- 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)
- Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse soaked navy beans under cold water and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion, celery, and carrots until softened (about 5 minutes).
- Stir in minced garlic, bay leaves, and black pepper; cook for an additional minute.
- Add the smoked ham hock and pour in chicken broth. Bring to a gentle boil.
- Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot. Lower heat and simmer uncovered for 1 to 1.5 hours until beans are tender.
- Remove the ham hock; shred meat back into soup before discarding the bone. Adjust seasoning as needed and serve hot.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 90 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Simmering
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 500mg
- Fat: 8g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 10g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 40mg