Bacon Hock Veg Soup Recipe for Hearty Homemade Flavor

As the chill of fall or winter sets in, there’s nothing quite like a warm, hearty bowl of soup to comfort the soul. Today, I’m excited to share my Bacon Hock Veg Soup Recipe, a timeless classic that brings together smoky, rich bacon hock with fresh garden vegetables.

This soup is a celebration of rustic flavors and wholesome ingredients, perfect for a cozy family dinner or meal prep for the week. The bacon hock infuses the broth with a depth of flavor that simply can’t be matched by store-bought stock, while the medley of vegetables adds vibrant color, texture, and nutrition.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this recipe is approachable and rewarding. Plus, it’s a great way to use up leftover veggies and make the most of every ingredient.

Let’s dive into why this soup is a must-try and how you can make it your new go-to comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Bacon Hock Veg Soup delivers on multiple fronts: flavor, nutrition, and simplicity. The bacon hock provides a smoky, savory base that elevates the soup beyond a typical vegetable broth.

Unlike using bacon bits or smoked turkey, the hock simmers slowly, releasing gelatin and a deep meaty richness that coats every spoonful.

The vegetables are fresh, colorful, and plentiful, making the soup not only tasty but also packed with vitamins and fiber. It’s a naturally gluten-free and hearty meal that can easily be customized to suit your pantry or dietary preferences.

Plus, it freezes beautifully, so you can make a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Lastly, this recipe is budget-friendly and perfect for beginners. It requires minimal prep and basic cooking skills, yet the end result feels gourmet and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 smoked bacon hock (about 1.5 lbs)
• 2 large carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed
• 1 cup green beans, chopped
• 1 cup cabbage, shredded
• 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Cutting board
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Ladle
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (optional, for clearer broth)
• Soup bowls for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the bacon hock: Rinse the bacon hock under cold water to remove any excess brine or surface impurities.
2. Sauté the aromatics: In your large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and celery. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables soften and the onion becomes translucent.
3. Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
4. Add the bacon hock and liquids: Carefully place the bacon hock into the pot. Pour in the 6 cups of water or chicken broth. Add the bay leaves and dried thyme.
5. Simmer the broth: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover partially. Let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours. This slow cooking releases the smoky flavor and gelatin from the hock, creating a rich broth.
6. Add vegetables: After simmering, remove the bacon hock and set aside to cool slightly. Add the cubed potatoes, green beans, and shredded cabbage to the pot. Continue simmering for another 20-30 minutes until the vegetables are tender.
7. Shred the meat: Once the bacon hock is cool enough to handle, shred the meat off the bone, discarding skin and bone. Return the shredded meat to the pot.
8. Season and adjust: Taste the soup and add salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Remove the bay leaves.
9. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

Tips & Variations

For a clearer broth, strain the soup after removing the bacon hock and before adding the vegetables.

You can customize this soup by adding other seasonal vegetables such as parsnips, turnips, or leeks. If you prefer a thicker consistency, mash a few potatoes in the pot or add a small handful of pearl barley during the last 30 minutes of simmering.

For extra depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a teaspoon of smoked paprika. If you want a vegetarian version, omit the bacon hock and use smoked paprika and liquid smoke to replicate the smoky flavor.

Leftovers reheat wonderfully and even taste better the next day as the flavors meld. This soup also freezes well for up to 3 months, making it a perfect make-ahead meal.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with a slice of warm, crusty bread or a homemade roll. For a delightful combo, try serving it alongside Hamburger Bun Sourdough Recipe to soak up every last drop of the rich broth.

For a lighter meal, consider a fresh green salad or a simple cucumber and tomato salad dressed with olive oil and lemon. If you’re in the mood for something sweet after your savory feast, the Grandma’S Old Fashioned Bread Pudding With Vanilla Sauce Recipe is a heartwarming dessert that complements this hearty soup perfectly.

And for a special brunch or snack, you might want to try the Glazed Twist Donut Recipe, which offers a sweet contrast to the savory soup experience.

Conclusion

Incorporating the smoky richness of a bacon hock into a wholesome vegetable soup creates a comforting dish that’s both nutritious and deeply satisfying. This recipe stands out for its simplicity, flavor, and versatility—qualities that make it a staple in my kitchen during colder months.

Whether you’re cooking for family or meal prepping for busy weekdays, this soup offers warmth, nourishment, and a delightful depth of flavor.

Enjoy the process of simmering your own broth and experimenting with different vegetables to make this recipe uniquely yours. And don’t forget to explore other delicious recipes on the blog like the Green Chile Cheese Bread Recipe to round out your meal experience.

Happy cooking, and here’s to many cozy bowls of soup ahead!

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