This classic, slow-simmered soup is pure comfort in a bowl. Navy beans become tender and creamy while a smoky ham hock infuses the broth with deep, savory flavor. It’s budget-friendly, filling, and perfect for cold days—or anytime you want a cozy, old-fashioned meal.
🕒 Prep Time, Cook Time & Servings
- Prep Time: 15 minutes (plus soaking time)
- Cook Time: 2–3 hours (stovetop) or 6–8 hours (slow cooker)
- Total Time: Up to 8 hours
- Servings: 6–8
🧰 Equipment Needed
- Large soup pot or Dutch oven
- Slow cooker (optional)
- Cutting board & knife
- Ladle
🥣 Ingredients
- 1 lb dried navy beans
- 1 large smoked ham hock
- 6 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust later)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
🧂 Ingredient Notes
- Navy Beans: Small, creamy beans that soften beautifully when slow-cooked
- Ham Hock: Adds smoky, rich flavor and tender bits of meat
- Vegetables: Classic trio (onion, carrot, celery) builds a flavorful base
- Thyme & Bay Leaf: Give that traditional, comforting aroma
👨🍳 Instructions
Step 1: Soak the Beans
Rinse beans thoroughly and soak overnight in water.
Quick method: Boil beans for 2 minutes, remove from heat, cover, and soak for 1 hour.
Step 2: Sauté the Base
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
Add onion, carrots, and celery. Cook for 5–7 minutes until softened.
Stir in garlic and cook for 1 minute.
Step 3: Build the Soup
Add soaked beans, ham hock, water/broth, thyme, bay leaf, salt, and pepper.
Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
Step 4: Simmer Slowly
Cover and simmer for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and discard bones and skin.
Return shredded meat to the pot.
Step 6: Final Adjustments
Taste and adjust salt and seasoning.
For a thicker soup, mash some beans with a spoon or blend a small portion.
🥘 Slow Cooker Method
- Add all ingredients to slow cooker
- Cook on LOW for 6–8 hours or HIGH for 4–5 hours
- Remove ham hock, shred meat, and return to pot
🍽️ Serving Suggestions
- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread
- Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice for brightness
- Top with fresh parsley for color
🔢 Nutrition (Approximate per serving)
- Calories: 300–350
- Protein: 20–25g
- Carbohydrates: 30–35g
- Fat: 8–12g
💡 Tips for Best Results
- Don’t add too much salt early—ham hock is naturally salty
- Low and slow cooking gives the best texture
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking
- Add water if needed during cooking
