Few dishes are as comforting and hearty as a steaming bowl of Bean and Ham Hock Soup. With smoky ham, tender beans, and aromatic vegetables simmered together for hours, this old-fashioned favorite is packed with flavor and perfect for chilly days. Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread, and you’ve got a soul-warming meal that feels like home.
Ingredients
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1 pound dried white beans (navy, cannellini, or great northern beans)
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2 smoked ham hocks
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1 large onion, diced
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2 carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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4 cloves garlic, minced
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8 cups chicken or vegetable broth (or water)
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1 bay leaf
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1 teaspoon dried thyme
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1 teaspoon dried parsley
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½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
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Salt and black pepper, to taste
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1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar or lemon juice (optional, for brightness)
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¼ cup fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
