Print

Beans Cooked with Ham Hock

Beans Cooked with Ham Hock
Print Recipe

Beans Cooked with Ham Hock is a hearty, warm dish that melds tender beans with smoky ham hock for a deeply comforting meal. This classic recipe uses simple pantry staples combined with fresh aromatics to create layers of savory and rich flavors. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, it offers satisfying protein and fiber with customizable options for varying tastes and dietary needs.

Ingredients

Scale

Beans and Meat

  • 2 cups dried navy, Great Northern, or pinto beans
  • 1 smoked ham hock

Vegetables

  • 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 medium carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

Liquids and Seasonings

  • 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons oil (for sautéing)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Beans: Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water, then soak them overnight or for at least 6 hours in plenty of water. This reduces cooking time and improves digestibility.
  2. Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add chopped onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. Sauté until the vegetables are softened and fragrant, about 5-7 minutes. This forms the flavorful base for the beans.
  3. Add Ham Hock and Beans: Place the smoked ham hock into the pot along with the drained beans. Pour in enough broth to cover the beans by about an inch. Add bay leaves and thyme for seasoning.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer uncovered for 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, until the beans are tender and the broth has thickened.
  5. Season and Serve: Remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred any meat from the bone and return it to the beans. Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve warm with your preferred garnishes or sides.

Notes

  • Use fresh smoked ham hock for the best flavor.
  • Longer soaking of beans ensures even cooking and better digestion.
  • Stir intermittently during simmering to prevent beans from sticking to the pot.
  • Adjust broth as needed to keep beans covered and maintain desired consistency.
  • Skim off any foam that forms during cooking to keep broth clear and improve taste.

Nutrition

Keywords: beans, ham hock, smoked ham, hearty meal, soul food, comfort food, protein rich, fiber rich, slow cooking, one pot meal

Find it online: https://recipesbykaeli.com/beans-cooked-with-ham-hock/