HEARTY BEAN & HAM HOCK SOUP: The Ultimate Comfort Food That Simmers Itself!

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## 🍳 How to Make It:

### **1. Soak the Beans (if using dried)**

* Soak overnight in water, or use the quick soak method (boil for 1 minute, then let sit for 1 hour).

### **2. Sauté the Aromatics**

* In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté onion, carrot, and celery in a little oil until softened.
* Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

### **3. Add the Ham Hock & Beans**

* Stir in beans, ham hock(s), bay leaf, thyme, and broth.
* Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.

### **4. Simmer Slowly**

* Cover and simmer for **2–3 hours**, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.

### **5. Shred the Meat**

* Remove ham hock, shred the meat, discard the skin and bone, then return meat to the pot.

### **6. Adjust & Serve**

* Season with salt and pepper.
* Add a splash of vinegar or hot sauce for brightness.
* Serve hot with **crusty bread or cornbread**.

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## 🧊 Leftovers? Even Better.

This soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld. It also **freezes beautifully**, so make a big batch and save some for a rainy (or snowy) day.

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## 🧡 Why You’ll Love This Soup:

* ✅ **Protein-packed & hearty**
* ✅ **Budget-friendly**
* ✅ **Great for meal prep**
* ✅ **One pot = minimal cleanup**
* ✅ **Comforting and nostalgic**

Whether you grew up eating it or just discovered it, **Hearty Bean & Ham Hock Soup** feels like a warm hug in a bowl. Serve it to guests, share it with family, or enjoy it solo by the fire — you really can’t go wrong.

> Because some of the best meals aren’t fancy — they’re **slow-simmered, soul-satisfying, and made with love.**

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**Want a printable version or a slow cooker variation? Just let me know — happy to share! 🍲🧄🍞**