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Beans Cooked with Ham Hocks: A Hearty, Soul-Warming Dish

Few dishes evoke comfort quite like beans cooked with ham hocks. This classic recipe combines tender beans, smoky ham, and a medley of aromatic vegetables to create a meal that is both filling and flavorful. Perfect for a family dinner or a cozy weekend lunch, this dish is simple to make yet deeply satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To serve 4–6 people, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 lb (450 g) dried beans (such as navy, pinto, or great northern beans)
• 2–3 smoked ham hocks (or smoked pork shanks)
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2–3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional, for extra smokiness)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 6 cups water or low-sodium broth
• 1–2 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional, for sautéing)
• Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Step-by-Step Method

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

Start by sorting and rinsing your dried beans. Remove any small stones or debris. Then, soak the beans to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility. You can:

• Overnight soak: Cover the beans with 3 inches of water and leave them in the fridge overnight.
• Quick soak: Place beans in a large pot, cover with water, bring to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let them sit for 1 hour.

After soaking, drain and rinse the beans.

Step 2: Sear the Ham Hocks (Optional but Recommended)

For deeper flavor, lightly sear the ham hocks:

1. Heat 1–2 tablespoons of olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the ham hocks and brown each side for 3–5 minutes. This step enhances the smoky aroma.

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