🍲 Ham Hock and Beans Recipe

👩‍🍳 Instructions

1. Prepare the beans
   • Soak the dried beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain before cooking.
2. Sauté aromatics
   • In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic until fragrant and slightly golden.
3. Add ham hock & beans
   • Add the soaked beans, smoked ham hock, water or broth, bay leaf, and pepper.
4. Simmer slowly
   • Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer gently for 2–3 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
5. Finish & serve
   • Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Discard the bone.
   • Taste and adjust seasoning (salt if needed).
6. Serve hot with a side of warm cornbread or crusty bread.

---

⭐ Tips & Variations

• Add chopped carrots, celery, or even tomatoes for extra depth.
• A splash of apple cider vinegar or hot sauce at the end brightens the flavors.
• Can be made ahead — flavors deepen even more the next day!