Smoky Ham Hock White Bean Soup

White Bean Soup with Ham

Overview:

This hearty White Bean Soup with Ham recipe is a comforting dish that’s simple to prepare, economical, and bursting with flavor. Inspired by Mark Bittman’s “How to Cook Everything,” it requires no presoaking of beans, making it convenient for a delicious meal any day of the week.

• Total Time: 1 hour 15 minutes
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 1 hour

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 374.4
• Total Fat: 10.6g
  • Saturated Fat: 3.3g
• Cholesterol: 62.9mg
• Sodium: 557.1mg
• Carbohydrates: 36.1g
  • Fiber: 5.2g
  • Sugar: 7.1g
• Protein: 32.5g

Ingredients:

• 1 smoked ham hock
• 3 cups water
• 12 ounces dried white beans
• 2 onions, chopped

Instructions:

1. Prepare Ingredients: In a large saucepan, combine the smoked ham hock, dried white beans, and water.

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2. Initial Cooking: Place the saucepan over medium-high heat.

3. Add Onions: Stir in the chopped onions.

4. Bring to Boil: Bring the mixture to a boil.

5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium-low. Cover the saucepan partially with a tilted lid.

6. Cook Until Tender: Cook the soup, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very soft and the meat is falling apart, approximately 1 hour.

7. Final Touch: Turn off the heat. Remove the ham hock from the soup. If desired, chop the meat and return it to the pot.

8. Serve: Ladle the White Bean Soup into bowls and serve with cornbread for a delightful meal.

Tips for Success:

• Ham Hock: Using a smoked ham hock adds robust flavor to the soup. Ensure it simmers long enough to infuse the broth with its smoky goodness.
• Bean Texture: Cooking until the beans are soft ensures a creamy texture, perfect for a comforting soup.
• Serve with Cornbread: The combination of White Bean Soup with freshly baked cornbread complements each other wonderfully, adding to the hearty nature of the dish.

Dietary Information:

• Low Cholesterol: Suitable for those looking to manage their cholesterol intake.
• Healthy: Provides a good source of fiber and protein, essential for a balanced diet.
• Inexpensive: Budget-friendly ingredients make this soup economical without compromising on flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

White Bean Soup with Ham is ideal for lunch or dinner, especially during cooler months when a warm, satisfying meal is most appreciated. It’s a one-dish meal that stands well on its own but can also be paired with a side salad for added freshness.

Conclusion:

This White Bean Soup with Ham recipe from Mark Bittman’s collection is a testament to simplicity and flavor. By following these detailed instructions, you’ll create a wholesome dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy the rich aroma and comforting taste of this delicious soup!