Looking for a hearty, flavorful, and comforting soup? This Smoky White Bean and Bacon Hock Soup is the perfect winter warmer. With rich smoky flavors, tender beans, and a zesty gremolata topping, it’s a dish that delivers deep satisfaction in every spoonful.
Whether you’re cooking for family or meal-prepping for the week, this nourishing and protein-packed soup is sure to become a favorite!
Body Overview
This rustic and smoky soup is packed with savory bacon hock, creamy white beans, and aromatic spices. Slow-cooked to perfection, it creates a thick, rich broth that’s both comforting and deeply satisfying.
What makes this soup truly special? The gremolata topping! A fresh mix of lemon zest, red chili, and flat-leaf parsley adds brightness and contrast to the deep, smoky flavors. Serve it with crusty sourdough bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
The best part? It’s easy to prepare and freezer-friendly, making it ideal for batch cooking. Follow these simple steps to make your own soul-warming bowl of goodness!
Ingredients List
For the Soup:
- 1 smoked bacon hock – adds deep, smoky flavor.
- 1 tbsp olive oil – for sautéing the aromatics.
- 1 onion, finely chopped – for sweetness and depth.
- 3 garlic cloves, crushed – adds bold, aromatic notes.
- 200g dried cannellini beans, rinsed – for creaminess and protein.
- 2 liters vegetable stock – creates a rich base.
- 2 tsp sweet paprika & 2 tbsp smoked paprika – for warm, smoky depth.
For the Gremolata Topping:
- 1 zested lemon – brings freshness and brightness.
- 1 long red chili, finely chopped – for a touch of heat.
- ½ cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped – adds a fresh, herbaceous kick.
For Serving:
- 1 loaf sourdough bread – perfect for dipping.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
- Heat olive oil in a large, heavy-based saucepan over medium heat.
- Add the onion and carrot, and cook for 5-6 minutes until softened.
- Stir in the garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Step 2: Build the Soup Base
- Add the bacon hock, cannellini beans, vegetable stock, and both types of paprika.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
- Cover and let it simmer for 2 ½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans and bacon hock are tender.
Step 3: Shred the Meat & Mash the Beans
- Remove the bacon hock from the soup and shred the meat, discarding the skin and bone.
- Take ⅓ of the beans and carrots from the soup, mash them, then stir back into the pot for a thicker consistency.
- Return the shredded meat to the soup.
Step 4: Final Seasoning & Gremolata Preparation
- Taste and season with sea salt flakes and freshly ground black pepper, if needed.
- In a small bowl, combine lemon zest, chopped red chili, and flat-leaf parsley to make the gremolata.
Step 5: Serve & Enjoy!
- Ladle the soup into large bowls, sprinkle with gremolata, and serve with crusty sourdough bread on the side.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
✔ Deep, smoky flavors – The slow-cooked bacon hock gives the soup a rich, umami depth.
✔ Thick & creamy texture – Mashing some of the beans makes it thicker and heartier.
✔ Easy to make & freezer-friendly – Perfect for meal prep and leftovers.
✔ Balanced & refreshing topping – The gremolata adds a burst of fresh flavor.
✔ Pairs perfectly with sourdough – The crusty bread soaks up the delicious broth!
Pro Tips & Variations
- No dried beans? Use canned cannellini beans and reduce the cooking time to 1.5 hours.
- Add extra veggies! Try adding celery, leeks, or potatoes for more texture.
- Want it spicier? Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or extra chili flakes.
- Make it vegetarian! Swap bacon hock for smoked tofu or mushrooms for a meat-free alternative.
- Freeze for later! Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
Final Thoughts
This Smoky White Bean and Bacon Hock Soup is the perfect comfort food for chilly nights. Its rich, velvety broth, tender beans, and smoky bacon flavors make it deeply satisfying, while the gremolata topping adds a refreshing twist.
Serve it with crusty sourdough bread for an unforgettable meal that will warm you up from the inside out.
Try this delicious recipe today, and let every spoonful bring you a taste of home! Happy Cooking!
