Smoked Ham Hock Bean & Cabbage Soup

This hearty and rustic soup combines the smoky flavor of ham hocks with tender beans, fresh vegetables, and savory broth. It's a comforting dish perfect for chilly days and a great way to use simple ingredients for maximum flavor.

🛒 Ingredients:
For the Soup:
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced 🧅
2 garlic cloves, minced 🧄
2 large carrots, sliced 🥕
2 celery stalks, diced 🥬
1 smoked ham hock (about 1 lb / 450g) 🥓
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth (1.4 liters) 🥣
1 small head of green cabbage, shredded (about 3 cups / 200g) 🥬
2 cans (15 oz / 425g each) cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 🫘
1 teaspoon dried thyme 🌿
1 bay leaf 🍃
Salt and black pepper, to taste 🌶️
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley, chopped 🌿
📋 Directions:
1. Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
Add the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until the vegetables start to soften.