Bacon Hock and Vegetable Soup Recipe for Cozy Meals

When it comes to soul-warming meals, nothing quite beats a hearty bowl of bacon hock and vegetable soup. This classic recipe combines the smoky richness of bacon hock with an array of fresh, vibrant vegetables to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for chilly evenings or whenever you crave a satisfying, nutritious soup.

Not only does this recipe warm you from the inside out, but it also offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures, from tender beans and crisp carrots to the deep, savory notes imparted by the bacon hock.

Whether you’re cooking for family or preparing a cozy meal for one, this soup is sure to become a cherished favorite in your culinary repertoire.

In this blog post, I’ll guide you through the ingredients, equipment, and step-by-step instructions to make this delicious soup from scratch. Plus, I’ll share tips on how to customize it to your taste and even some variations to keep things exciting.

So, grab your apron and get ready to make a bowl of comfort that’s both nourishing and bursting with flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bacon hock and vegetable soup is a standout for several reasons. First, the slow-cooked bacon hock infuses the broth with a rich, smoky depth that’s hard to replicate with other proteins.

It’s like a flavor bomb that enhances every spoonful.

Second, it’s packed with wholesome vegetables—think hearty beans, sweet carrots, earthy celery, and aromatic onions—which not only add vibrant color but also a wealth of nutrients and fiber.

Third, this recipe is incredibly versatile and forgiving. You can easily swap vegetables depending on what’s in season or what you have on hand.

Additionally, it’s ideal for batch cooking, so you can enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.

Lastly, it’s a straightforward recipe that doesn’t require fancy ingredients or complicated techniques, making it accessible for cooks of all skill levels.

Ingredients

• 1 smoked bacon hock (about 1 to 1.5 pounds)
• 1 large onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 large carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery stalks, chopped
• 1 cup dried white beans (such as navy or cannellini), soaked overnight and drained
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 4 cups water
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Optional: 1 cup diced potatoes or parsnips for extra heartiness

Equipment

• Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven
• Cutting board
• Sharp chef’s knife
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Colander or sieve (for draining soaked beans)
• Ladle (for serving)
• Bowl or container (for soaking beans overnight)

Instructions

1. Prepare the beans: Begin by soaking the dried white beans overnight in plenty of water. This softens them and reduces cooking time. Drain and rinse before using.
2. Sear the bacon hock: Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the bacon hock and sear it on all sides until it develops a golden-brown crust. This step helps to deepen the smoky flavor.
3. Sauté the aromatics: Remove the bacon hock temporarily and add diced onions, minced garlic, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and fragrant.
4. Add beans and liquids: Return the bacon hock to the pot. Add the soaked beans, chicken or vegetable broth, water, bay leaves, and dried thyme. Stir to combine.
5. Simmer the soup: Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Let the soup simmer gently for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the bacon hock meat is falling off the bone.
6. Remove and shred bacon meat: Carefully take the bacon hock out of the pot and set aside to cool slightly. Remove the skin and bones, shred the meat into bite-sized pieces, and discard the bones and skin.
7. Finish the soup: Return the shredded bacon meat to the soup. If using potatoes or parsnips, add them now and cook for an additional 20-30 minutes until tender. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with fresh chopped parsley, and enjoy hot!

Tips & Variations

“For an even richer broth, try adding a ham bone or smoked sausage alongside the bacon hock during simmering.”

– If you’re short on time, use canned white beans instead of dried. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

– Feel free to swap vegetables based on what you like or have available. Kale, spinach, or diced tomatoes work beautifully as additions or substitutes.

– For a thicker soup, mash some of the cooked beans against the side of the pot before adding the shredded bacon back in.

– Love spice? A pinch of smoked paprika or a dash of the homemade chili powder blend can add a nice kick without overpowering the smoky base.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This bacon hock and vegetable soup is wonderfully versatile when it comes to pairing options. Serve it alongside a crusty artisan bread or warm dinner rolls to soak up every last drop of the flavorful broth.

A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances the smoky richness nicely, or try roasted root vegetables on the side for an extra boost of hearty comfort.

For a more filling meal, add a sprinkle of grated cheese or a dollop of sour cream on top. If you’re interested in exploring more warming soups, be sure to check out our collection of Vegan Fall Soup Recipes To Warm Your Cozy Evenings for delicious plant-based ideas.

Conclusion

Making bacon hock and vegetable soup at home is an incredibly rewarding experience. This recipe brings together simple, wholesome ingredients that result in a rich, smoky broth and tender, nutritious vegetables that satisfy and nourish.

It’s a perfect meal for cooler days and a wonderful way to enjoy comfort food without fuss.

With the step-by-step instructions provided, even novice cooks can confidently create this classic soup. Plus, the flexibility to customize vegetables and seasonings means you can tailor it to your preferences or what’s available in your pantry.

Don’t forget to experiment with some of the tips and variations for new flavor twists every time you make it.

If you love hearty and wholesome recipes like this one, you might also enjoy our Cheap Vegetarian Recipes For Families Everyone Will Love or our Amazing Vegan Pasta Recipes for Easy Delicious Meals. Happy cooking and bon appétit!

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