𝐁𝐄𝐀𝐍 𝐀𝐍𝐃 𝐇𝐀𝐌 𝐇𝐎𝐂𝐊 𝐒𝐎𝐔𝐏

### Instructions:

#### Step 1: Soak the Beans
To prepare the beans, start by rinsing them thoroughly in a colander. After that, place them in a large bowl and cover them with water. Let the beans soak for at least 6-8 hours or overnight. Alternatively, use the quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for 1 hour before draining.

#### Step 2: Brown the Ham Hocks
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the ham hocks and brown them on all sides. This step is optional, but it helps to develop a deeper flavor for the soup. Once browned, remove the ham hocks from the pot and set them aside.

#### Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add the chopped onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté the vegetables for 5-7 minutes, or until they start to soften and become fragrant. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

#### Step 4: Add the Liquids and Beans
Once the vegetables are cooked, return the ham hocks to the pot. Add the soaked beans (drained and rinsed) to the pot along with the chicken broth. Stir in the dried thyme, bay leaves, smoked paprika (if using), and salt and pepper to taste.

#### Step 5: Simmer the Soup
Bring the soup to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and let the soup simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the ham hocks are fully cooked. Occasionally check the soup and skim off any foam or fat that rises to the top.

#### Step 6: Shred the Ham
Once the ham hocks are cooked, remove them from the pot. Let them cool for a few minutes, then remove the meat from the bones. Shred the meat into bite-sized pieces and return it to the soup. Discard the bones and any excess fat.

#### Step 7: Add Greens (Optional)
If you are using leafy greens, add them to the soup during the last 30 minutes of cooking. Stir them in and allow them to cook down into the soup, adding both flavor and color.

#### Step 8: Final Seasoning and Serve
Once the soup is fully cooked and the beans are tender, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and vinegar or lemon juice, if desired. The acidity will help balance the richness of the ham and beans. Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by cornbread or crusty bread.

## Variations of Bean and Ham Hock Soup

While the traditional **Bean and Ham Hock Soup** recipe is classic and comforting, you can experiment with different ingredients and flavors to make the dish your own. Here are a few variations you can try:

### 1. **Vegetarian Version**
If you prefer a vegetarian version of the soup, you can substitute the ham hocks with smoked tempeh, tofu, or even liquid smoke to provide the smoky flavor. You can also add a combination of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and potatoes to give the soup more texture.

### 2. **Spicy Bean and Ham Soup**
For those who enjoy a little heat, adding jalapeños, cayenne pepper, or a dash of hot sauce can kick up the flavor profile of the soup. Pair it with a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of cheese for extra richness.

### 3. **Crockpot Version**
If you prefer a hands-off approach, you can make **Bean and Ham Hock Soup** in the slow cooker. Simply add all the ingredients to the crockpot, set it on low, and let it cook for 6-8 hours, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together.

### 4. **Southern-Style Bean and Ham Hock Soup**
For a true Southern twist, you can add smoked sausage or bacon to the soup for even more flavor. Collard greens or kale are a great addition to the soup, providing both nutrition and a slightly bitter note that complements the rich, smoky broth.

## Conclusion

**Bean and Ham Hock Soup** is the ultimate comfort food. It’s hearty, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit any palate. Whether you enjoy it in its classic form or want to experiment with different variations, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your hunger and warm you up from the inside out.

The combination of tender beans, smoky ham, and savory vegetables is the perfect meal for chilly days, family gatherings, or just when you need something filling and nourishing. With its humble origins and comforting flavor, **Bean and Ham Hock Soup** is a dish that will continue to bring people together for generations to come.