Ham hocks can take a while to cook to make them tender and flavorful in soup. It is recommended to boil them for 2 to 3 hours, or until the meat falls off the bone easily.

Here's a basic recipe for ham hock soup:

Ingredients:

  • 2-3 ham hocks

  • 8 cups of water

  • 1 onion, chopped

  • 2 carrots, peeled and chopped

  • 2 celery stalks, chopped

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 bay leaf

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Rinse the ham hocks under cold water and place them in a large pot with 8 cups of water.

  2. Bring the water to a boil and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 2 to 3 hours, or until the ham hocks are tender and the meat falls off the bone easily.

  3. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let them cool slightly. Remove the meat from the bones and chop it into small pieces.

  4. Add the chopped onion, carrots, celery, garlic, and bay leaf to the pot. Simmer for 30 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.

  5. Add the chopped ham hock meat back to the pot and season with salt and pepper, to taste.

  6. Serve hot and enjoy!