Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup

A steaming bowl of Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup is pure comfort food—perfect for cold days, cozy evenings, or anytime you crave a rustic, filling meal. The slow-cooked ham hock infuses the beans with a deep, smoky richness, while the carrots, celery, onion, and garlic add sweetness and earthiness.

This soup is nutritious, protein-packed, and budget-friendly—a true classic that has been loved across generations. Whether you’re serving it with a crusty loaf of bread or a light side salad, it’s a meal that warms both body and soul.

Ingredients (Serves 6)

1 lb (450g) dried navy beans (or great northern beans), soaked overnight
1 large onion, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1–2 smoked ham hocks (or 2 cups diced cooked ham)
8 cups chicken stock (or water with bouillon)
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme (or rosemary)
1 tsp black pepper (adjust to taste)
½ tsp salt (adjust depending on ham’s saltiness)
2 tbsp olive oil or butter
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Rinse dried beans and soak overnight in cold water.
Drain and set aside. (For quick soak: boil beans for 5 minutes, turn off heat, cover, and let rest 1 hour.)

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In a large soup pot, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.
Add onion, celery, and carrots. Cook 5–6 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Add ham hocks, soaked beans, chicken stock, bay leaves, thyme, pepper, and salt.
Stir, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer gently for 2–3 hours, until beans are tender and ham hocks fall apart.

Step 4: Finish the Soup

Remove ham hocks from pot. Shred meat off the bone, discarding skin and fat.
Return shredded meat to the pot, stir well, and adjust seasoning.
For a creamier texture, mash some beans with a spoon or blend 1–2 cups and stir back into the soup.

Step 5: Serve

Ladle hot soup into bowls. Garnish with chopped parsley.
Serve with crusty bread, cornbread, or biscuits.

Serving Ideas

Add a drizzle of olive oil or sprinkle of parmesan before serving.
Pair with a fresh green salad to balance the richness.
Freeze leftovers in individual portions for quick weekday meals.

Tips & Variations

No ham hocks? Use smoked turkey legs or diced ham.
Vegetarian version: Replace ham with smoked paprika for depth.
Extra flavor: Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or lemon juice before serving for brightness.
Thicker soup: Let it simmer uncovered for the last 30 minutes to reduce liquid.

Nutrition (Per Serving, Approx.)

Calories: 310 kcal
Protein: 20g
Carbs: 35g
Fat: 9g
Fiber: 10g