Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup for Cozy Nights

When chilly nights roll in, there's nothing quite like a warm bowl of hearty navy bean and ham hock soup. My friend Sarah always says that this soup reminds her of her grandma's kitchen, filled with the comforting aroma of simmering beans. This delicious navy bean soup is perfect for cozy evenings with family or friends.

Why You’ll Love It

• It’s a one-pot wonder that makes cleanup a breeze.
• The flavors deepen as it cooks, making it even better the next day.
• It’s packed with protein and fiber, keeping you full and satisfied.
• You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or spices.

Pure Comfort

This soup is pure comfort in a bowl. The creamy texture of the navy beans combined with the smoky flavor of the ham hock creates a delightful harmony that warms the soul.

What You Need

• 1 lb 1 lb dried navy beans – Soaked overnight for best results.
• 1 1 large yellow onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth.
• 2 2 cloves garlic, minced – For a flavorful kick.
• 2 2 medium carrots, diced – Adds color and sweetness.
• 2 2 celery stalks, diced – Provides a nice crunch.
• 1 1 ham hock – For a smoky flavor; can substitute with smoked turkey leg.
• 8 cups 8 cups chicken broth – Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
• 1 tsp 1 tsp dried thyme – Enhances the savory flavor.
• to taste Salt and pepper to taste – Adjust according to preference.

Time to Cook

Prep: 15 minutes | Cook: 2 hours | Total: 2 hours 15 minutes | Difficulty: Easy | Make-Ahead: Yes, soup can be made a day in advance.

Steps to Make It

1. Start by rinsing the soaked navy beans under cold water. This helps remove any debris and excess starch. Then, set them aside while you prepare the other ingredients.
2. In a large pot, heat a splash of oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The aroma will fill your kitchen, making it feel cozy.
3. Next, stir in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the veggies soften. You’ll see the colors brighten, and it will smell amazing.
4. Add the ham hock to the pot, followed by the rinsed navy beans. Pour in the chicken broth, and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and let it simmer.
5. Sprinkle in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. The beans should be tender and creamy, and the ham hock will impart its flavor.
6. Once the soup is ready, remove the ham hock and let it cool slightly. Shred the meat off the bone and return it to the pot. Give everything a good stir and taste for seasoning.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping.

Make It Perfect

• For a thicker soup, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or blend a portion of it.
• If you’re short on time, you can use canned navy beans; just adjust the cooking time accordingly.
• This soup freezes beautifully, so make a big batch and enjoy it later!

Mix It Up

• Add diced potatoes for extra heartiness.
• Incorporate greens like spinach or kale for a nutrient boost.
• Spice it up with a pinch of cayenne or smoked paprika.

Perfect Partners

• Pair it with a side of cornbread for a classic touch.
• Serve with a fresh garden salad to balance the meal.
• A glass of apple cider complements the flavors wonderfully.

💡 For more recipes, follow me on Pinterest.

FAQs

Conclusion

This hearty navy bean and ham hock soup is a true delight for cozy nights. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every spoonful and share the warmth with loved ones.

Hearty Navy Bean and Ham Hock Soup for Cozy Nights

A warm and comforting navy bean and ham hock soup featuring creamy beans, smoky ham, and fresh vegetables, perfect for cozy evenings. This easy one-pot recipe is packed with protein and fiber and can be customized with your favorite additions.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 2 minutes mins

Total Time 2 minutes mins

Course: Dinner, Soup

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

Main

• 1 large yellow onion diced
• 2 cloves garlic minced
• 2 medium carrots diced
• 2 stalks celery diced
• 1 ham hock can substitute with smoked turkey leg
• 8 cups chicken broth use low-sodium for healthier option
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• to taste salt and pepper adjust according to preference

Equipment

• Large pot

Method

 

1. Rinse the soaked navy beans under cold water to remove debris and excess starch, then set aside.
2. Heat a splash of oil in a large pot over medium heat and sauté diced onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery to the pot and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened.
4. Add ham hock and rinsed navy beans to the pot, pour in chicken broth, and bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, sprinkle in dried thyme, salt, and pepper, then cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours until beans are tender.
6. Remove ham hock from pot, let cool slightly, shred the meat off the bone, then return the meat to the soup and stir.
7. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, accompanied by crusty bread for dipping.