Hearty Ham and Bean Delight is a comforting, soul-warming dish that brings together the smokiness of ham with the earthiness of beans. Perfect for those chilly days when you need something both filling and flavorful, this recipe is a true classic with a touch of warmth.
The smoked ham hock is the star, infusing the broth with deep, smoky flavor. Diced cooked ham adds hearty bites throughout. Olive oil is used to sauté the vegetables, giving them a rich base flavor. The onion, carrots, and celery form the classic mirepoix trio, setting the foundation for this dish. Garlic brings a fragrant warmth, while dried thyme and a bay leaf add herbal notes. Black pepper and a touch of cayenne pepper provide just the right amount of kick. Chicken stock forms the liquid base, adding depth and richness. Cannellini beans lend a creamy texture, and fire-roasted diced tomatoes offer a subtle sweetness and acidity. Finally, fresh parsley brightens the dish, adding a fresh finish.
This dish pairs beautifully with a slice of crusty bread for dipping or a side of cornbread to complement the smoky flavors. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette can add a refreshing contrast to the hearty stew.
Start by heating your olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once warm, toss in the onion, carrots, and celery. Let them sauté until they're soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This step really builds the foundation of flavor, so take your time here.
Next, stir in the garlic, dried thyme, bay leaf, black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Give it a good stir and let everything cook together for another 2 minutes. You'll start to smell the spices toasting, which is exactly what you want.
Pour in the chicken stock, add the ham hock, and stir in the fire-roasted diced tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it bubble away for about an hour, stirring occasionally to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom.
Once the hour is up, remove the ham hock from the pot. Shred any meat from the bone and return it to the pot along with the diced ham and cannellini beans. Let everything simmer together for another 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Finally, discard the bay leaf, season with salt to your taste, and stir in the fresh parsley just before serving. This last step adds a burst of freshness to the dish.
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