Hearty Navy Bean

 Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

 

Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

Warm up with this soul-satisfying classic—perfect for chilly days, hearty appetites, and anyone craving old-fashioned comfort food.Best restaurants near me

Why You’ll Love This Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

This Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup is a time-honored classic, beloved for its rich, smoky flavor and satisfying texture. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or batch cooking for the week, this comforting soup delivers every time. Simmered low and slow, it transforms humble pantry staples into a nourishing and unforgettable meal. The flavor from the ham hock seeps into every bite, making this a top-tier go-to recipe for cold nights or cozy Sundays at home.

Ingredients & What They Do

1 lb dried navy beans – The star of the dish, these small white beans soak up the broth and break down beautifully into a creamy, hearty texture.

1 large smoked ham hock – Infuses the soup with deep smoky flavor and richness; also contributes tender bits of meat once simmered.

1 large onion, chopped – Adds aromatic depth and a savory base to the broth.

2 celery stalks, chopped – Brings a fresh, slightly peppery crunch to balance the richness.

2 cloves garlic, minced – Enhances the flavor profile with warm, earthy tones.

2 carrots, peeled and chopped – Introduce a subtle sweetness and vibrant color.

1 bay leaf – Adds herbal depth and complexity.

Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste – Essential for seasoning; adjust gradually after simmering since the ham hock may already be salty.

8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth – Provides the base for your soup; broth adds extra richness, while water allows the ham hock to shine.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Sort and rinse the beans: Place the navy beans in a colander, rinse thoroughly under cold water, and remove any debris or bad beans.

Soak overnight: Place beans in a large bowl, cover with several inches of water, and soak overnight. (Alternatively, use the quick soak method: boil beans for 2 minutes, turn off heat, cover, and let sit for 1 hour.)

Sauté aromatics: In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, sauté the chopped onion, celery, and carrots in a bit of oil over medium heat for 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.

Add ham hock and beans: Drain the soaked beans and add them to the pot along with the ham hock, bay leaf, and broth or water.

Simmer low and slow: Bring the pot to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer uncovered for 2 to 2.5 hours. Stir occasionally and check the water level—add more if needed to keep beans covered.

Shred the ham: Once the ham hock is tender, remove it from the pot. Discard skin and bone, shred the meat, and return it to the soup.

Season and serve: Taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaf. Serve hot with your favorite bread or side.

Pro Tips for the Best Navy Bean Soup

Don’t salt too early – Let the ham hock flavor develop before adding salt to avoid over-seasoning.

Use homemade or low-sodium broth – It gives you better control over saltiness and enhances the soup’s base flavor

Leftovers taste even better – This soup is fantastic the next day, once flavors have fully melded. It freezes like a dream, too!

For extra creaminess, mash a cup of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup with a thick slice of buttered cornbread, a side of pickled okra, or a simple green salad with vinaigrette. For a Southern-style meal, serve with fried potatoes or a glass of sweet iced tea.

Why This Recipe Wins Every Time

This simple, satisfying, and deeply flavorful recipe is a testament to traditional comfort food at its finest. It’s budget-friendly, packed with protein and fiber, and easily feeds a family or fills your freezer with leftovers. The slow simmer creates a soup that’s rich, smoky, and utterly irresistible.

Don’t wait to bring this classic into your rotation. Whether it’s a cold winter night or you’re just craving something warm and homemade, this Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup is guaranteed to hit the spot. Bookmark it, share it, and most of all—enjoy every spoonfu