Beans Cooked with Ham Hocks

There is nothing more comforting when you do not feel well, than a bowl of warm soup. To have a soup that is savory, healthy, and filled with delicious flavors makes it all the better. This soup is one of those soups that I prefer to make and keep on hand. Beans and Ham Hocks are two items that pair perfectly and taste great together.

This soup is super easy to make and could be made in the Crockpot also.

Not only do the beans come out perfectly, but the Ham Hocks also give the dish a smoky flavor, add in sliced carrots, onion, and celery and you have a dish made in Heaven. This soup is filled with nutrition, from the fiber in the beans to the Vitamins and minerals of the vegetables.

This is the perfect dish to make for a cold winter evening or when you have loads to do on the weekend. You can let this pot of soup simmering on the stove and grab some whenever you get the chance.

Why Try This Beans Cooked with Ham Hocks recipe

This recipe is a classic Southern-style comfort food that is hearty, flavorful, and easy to make. The combination of beans and ham hocks makes for a rich and smoky broth, while the addition of vegetables adds a healthy and nutritious touch. It is a perfect dish for a cold winter day or for a comforting family meal.

What is the difference between ham hocks and Ham Shanks?

The ham hock is taken from the ankle joint and tends to have more meat on them. The shank is taken from the lower leg. While either one can be used in this dish, ham hocks do contain more meat.

Should I soak the beans overnight?

They do not have to soak overnight. You can bring a large pot of water to a boil, remove the pot from the heat and pour in the beans. Cover and let soak for 2 hours. This works just as well as an overnight soak but is quicker.

What should I serve with the Beans Cooked with Ham Hocks?

I most often serve cornbread or slices of crusty bread that can soak up the delicious broth. This is a complete meal and does not require any further sides, unless you would like more.

There are few things as satisfying as good beans and ham hocks recipe. The rich, smoky flavor of the ham hocks combined with the creamy beans is simply heaven on a plate.

Weight Watchers–Friendly Ham & White Bean Soup

Ingredients

• 1 lb. Great Northern beans, soaked overnight
• 2 liters water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 lb. smoked ham hock, trimmed of excess fat
• 2 tsp. Herbs de Provence
• 1 tsp. olive oil
• 1 cup chopped onion
• 1 cup chopped celery
• ⅔ cup chopped carrots
• 2 tsp. minced garlic
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Soak the beans overnight, then drain and rinse well.
2. Add the beans, water or broth, ham hock, and Herbs de Provence to a large pot.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 1½–2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
4. Remove the ham hock, take the meat off the bone, and discard the bone and excess fat.
5. Heat the olive oil in a skillet and sauté the onion, celery, carrots, and garlic for 5–7 minutes.
6. Add the vegetables and shredded ham back to the soup.
7. Simmer for another 20–30 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Weight Watchers Tips

• Use only 1 tsp. olive oil instead of 1 Tbsp.
• Trim as much visible fat from the ham hock as possible.
• For an even lower-point version, use lean smoked ham instead of a ham hock.
• Divide into 8 servings for easier portion control.