Ingredients:
- 1 Gamze Smokehouse ham hock
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 8 cups water
- 2 cups dried split peas
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Prepare the Gamze Smokehouse Ham Hock:
- Rinse the ham hock under cold water to remove any excess salt.
- In a large stockpot, place the ham hock, chopped onion, carrots, celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, and dried parsley.
- Add Water and Simmer:
- Pour 8 cups of water into the pot, ensuring that the ham hock and vegetables are fully submerged.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the ham hock meat is tender and easily falls off the bone.
- Remove Ham Hock and Shred Meat:
- Carefully remove the ham hock from the soup using tongs.
- Allow the ham hock to cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone. Discard the bone, skin, and any excess fat.
- Add Split Peas:
- Rinse the dried split peas under cold water and add them to the soup. Stir to combine.
- Continue Simmering:
- Cover the pot and continue to simmer the soup for an additional 30-40 minutes, or until the split peas are soft and the soup has thickened. Stir occasionally.
- Return Shredded Ham Hock:
- Once the split peas are tender, return the shredded ham hock meat to the soup. Stir well to incorporate the ham into the soup.
- Season and Serve:
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning as needed.
- Remove the bay leaf.
- Serve the Gamze Smokehouse Ham Hock Soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Enjoy your hearty and flavorful ham hock soup! It’s a comforting dish that’s perfect for cold weather or any time you’re craving a warm and satisfying meal.