HEARTY BEAN & HAM HOCK SOUP: The Ultimate Comfort Food That Simmers Itself!

• 1 lb dried navy beans (or great Northern), soaked overnight

• 1 meaty ham hock (about 1.5 lbs)

• 8 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)

• 1 onion, diced

• 2 carrots, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 4 garlic cloves, minced

✅ Flavor Boosters

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 tsp dried thyme

• ½ tsp black pepper

• 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (brightens the broth!)

• Salt to taste (add after cooking—ham hock is salty!)

🎯 Optional Upgrades

• 1 can diced tomatoes

• Handful of kale or spinach (stir in at the end)

👨🍳 EASY STEPS (Let Your Pot Do the Work!)

1. Quick Soak Shortcut