Ham Hock Lentil Soup: 1 Amazing, Hearty Bowl

October 11, 2025

Ham Hock Lentil Soup has been a staple in my kitchen for years, ever since I first tasted my grandmother’s recipe on a chilly autumn evening. The rich, smoky aroma of the ham hock mingling with earthy lentils instantly filled her cozy kitchen, promising warmth and comfort. That first spoonful of her homemade smoked ham hock and lentil soup felt like a hug in a bowl, a truly hearty and satisfying meal. Now, I love recreating that nostalgic feeling, especially when I’m looking for an easy ham hock and lentil dinner that feeds the soul. It’s truly one of my favorite cold-weather dishes. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Ham Hock Lentil Soup

I genuinely believe this Ham Hock Lentil Soup will become a new favorite in your home. It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings everyone to the table. Here’s why I think you’ll adore it:

Incredible Flavor: The smoky ham hock infuses every spoonful with a rich, savory depth that is simply irresistible.
Effortless Preparation: With mostly hands-off simmering, this recipe is surprisingly simple for such a flavorful dish.
Nutrient-Packed: Lentils are a powerhouse of protein and fiber, making this a healthy and satisfying option.
Budget-Friendly: Ham hocks are an economical cut of meat, stretching your dollar while delivering immense flavor.
Family Favorite: Its hearty and comforting nature makes it a hit with both kids and adults, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
Perfect for Meal Prep: This hearty ham hock lentil stew tastes even better the next day, making it ideal for leftovers.
Ultimate Comfort Food: There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of this hearty ham hock lentil stew on a chilly evening.

Ingredients for Ham Hock Lentil Soup

Gathering the right ingredients is key to making a truly delicious Ham Hock Lentil Soup. I’ve found that using quality components really elevates the flavor, making every spoonful a delight. Here’s what you’ll need for this hearty and comforting dish:

1 tablespoon olive oil – for sautéing our aromatics.
1 large onion, chopped – the foundation of so many great soups, adding sweetness and depth.
2 carrots, chopped – for natural sweetness and a vibrant color.
2 celery stalks, chopped – completes the classic mirepoix, providing essential flavor.
2 cloves garlic, minced – always a must for its aromatic punch.
1 (1.5-2 pound) smoked ham hock – the star of our show, bringing incredible smoky, savory flavor to our lentil soup with smoked pork hock.
1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed – these hold their shape well and provide a wonderful earthy texture.
6 cups chicken or vegetable broth – the liquid base, choose low-sodium if you prefer to control the salt.
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained – adds a touch of acidity and brightness.
1 bay leaf – a subtle but important aromatic for depth.
1/2 teaspoon dried thyme – complements the smoky ham and earthy lentils beautifully.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste – season at the end to account for the ham hock’s saltiness.
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish – adds a fresh finish and a pop of color.

How to Make Ham Hock Lentil Soup

Making this delicious Ham Hock Lentil Soup is a straightforward process, mostly involving simmering time, which means less active cooking for you! I love how effortlessly the flavors meld together to create such a comforting meal. Just follow these simple ham hock lentil soup instructions, and you’ll have a hearty soup ready in no time.

Step 1: First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. This is where we start building our flavor base.
Step 2: Add your chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté these aromatic vegetables until they soften, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll notice they start to become fragrant and slightly translucent.
Step 3: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just another minute. Be careful not to burn it, as garlic can turn bitter quickly. The kitchen should now smell absolutely wonderful!
Step 4: Now, add the star of our dish: the smoked ham hock. Pour in the rinsed brown or green lentils, followed by the 6 cups of chicken or vegetable broth.
Step 5: Introduce the 1 (14.5 ounce) can of diced tomatoes (undrained), the 1 bay leaf, and 1/2 teaspoon of dried thyme to the pot. Give everything a good stir to combine these wonderful ingredients.
Step 6: Bring the entire mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer gently. You’ll want to cook it for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the ham hock is incredibly tender and the lentils are perfectly cooked through. This long simmer is key to a flavorful Ham Hock Lentil Soup.
Step 7: Carefully remove the ham hock from the pot. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred the tender meat from the bone, discarding the bone, skin, and any excess fat.
Step 8: Return the shredded ham to the Ham Hock Lentil Soup. This is where the soup really comes alive with that smoky ham flavor.
Step 9: Season the soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Remember to remove the bay leaf before serving. Ladle the hearty soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley if you like. These simple ham hock lentil soup instructions make for a truly satisfying meal.

Delicious Ham Hock Lentil Soup in a bowl with fresh parsley, ready to be enjoyed

Pro Tips for the Best Ham Hock Lentil Soup

I’ve learned a few tricks over the years that truly elevate this humble dish into something extraordinary. These pro tips will ensure your Ham Hock Lentil Soup is packed with flavor and perfect texture every single time. Don’t skip these little details!

Always rinse your lentils thoroughly before adding them to the pot. This removes any dust or debris and can help with digestibility.
Don’t be shy with the aromatics; allowing the onion, carrots, and celery to soften properly creates a fantastic flavor base for your soup.
Taste as you go! Ham hocks can vary in saltiness, so wait until the end to adjust the salt and pepper.
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice right before serving. It brightens everything up.

What’s the secret to perfect Ham Hock Lentil Soup?

The real secret lies in the slow simmering. This allows the ham hock to completely break down, infusing the entire soup with its rich, smoky essence. It’s what transforms a simple lentil soup into a truly traditional ham hock and lentil dish, deep with flavor.

Can I make Ham Hock Lentil Soup ahead of time?

Absolutely, and I highly recommend it! This Ham Hock Lentil Soup tastes even better the next day as the flavors have more time to meld and deepen. Just cool it completely before refrigerating in an airtight container.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Ham Hock Lentil Soup?

First, avoid overcooking the lentils; they should be tender but not mushy. Second, don’t forget to remove the bay leaf before serving. Lastly, be mindful of the salt content from the ham hock, and adjust seasoning carefully at the end.

Best Ways to Serve Ham Hock Lentil Soup

Once your warming pot of Ham Hock Lentil Soup is ready, the serving possibilities are delightfully simple yet satisfying. I often serve it as the star of the meal, letting its rich flavors shine. A crusty piece of bread or a warm corn muffin is the perfect companion for soaking up every last drop of this savory broth.

For a complete and balanced meal, especially if you’re leaning into that comforting, Southern-style ham hock lentil soup vibe, a side of fresh, crisp greens with a light vinaigrette adds a welcome contrast. I sometimes even add a dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of fresh chives right before serving for an extra layer of creaminess and freshness. It’s a versatile dish that truly satisfies.

Close-up of a bowl of Ham Hock Lentil Soup garnished with fresh parsley

Nutrition Facts for Ham Hock Lentil Soup

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional aspects of my recipes, so here are the estimated nutrition facts for this hearty Ham Hock Lentil Soup per serving (recipe makes 6-8 servings, based on a 1.5 cup portion):

Calories: 350
Protein: 25g
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Carbohydrates: 38g
Fiber: 15g
Sugar: 5g
Sodium: 700mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and precise quantities of ingredients you use for your Ham Hock Lentil Soup.

How to Store and Reheat Ham Hock Lentil Soup

One of the best things about making a big batch of Ham Hock Lentil Soup is how wonderfully it stores. I always make extra, knowing it will be just as delicious, if not more so, in the days to come. Proper storage is key to enjoying your homemade ham hock lentil soup from scratch safely and effectively.

After cooking, allow the soup to cool completely at room temperature for no more than two hours. Then, transfer it to airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. For longer storage, this Ham Hock Lentil Soup freezes exceptionally well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring halfway through. A quick reheat brings all those comforting flavors right back to life!

Frequently Asked Questions About Ham Hock Lentil Soup

What is ham hock lentil soup?

Ham Hock Lentil Soup is a hearty, flavorful soup made primarily with lentils, vegetables, and a smoked ham hock. The ham hock slowly simmers, infusing the broth with a rich, smoky, and savory depth that truly defines the dish. It’s comfort food at its finest, often enjoyed as a full meal.

Can I use a different type of ham for this soup?

While a smoked ham hock is traditional and provides unparalleled flavor, you can substitute it with other smoked ham products. Smoked turkey legs or even leftover holiday ham bone can work. However, for that authentic, deep smoky taste that makes Ham Hock Lentil Soup so special, I highly recommend sticking with the hock.

Do I need to soak the lentils before cooking?

For this Ham Hock Lentil Soup recipe, you typically don’t need to soak brown or green lentils. A good rinse under cold water to remove any debris is usually sufficient. Soaking is more common for larger, firmer beans, but these lentils cook beautifully without prior soaking, especially during the long simmer.

How can I make my Ham Hock Lentil Soup thicker?

If you prefer a thicker consistency for your Ham Hock Lentil Soup, you have a few options. You can use an immersion blender to partially blend a portion of the soup, or simply mash some of the cooked lentils against the side of the pot with a spoon. Another trick is to remove about a cup of the soup, blend it, and then return it to the pot.

Variations of Ham Hock Lentil Soup You Can Try

While my classic Ham Hock Lentil Soup recipe is a favorite, I love experimenting with variations to keep things fresh. Sometimes, I want to tweak the flavor profile or simplify the cooking method. These ideas offer fantastic ways to adapt this beloved dish to your taste or schedule.

Spicy Kick: For those who love a bit of heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic, or a finely diced jalapeño early in the cooking process. It adds a wonderful warmth to the hearty flavors.
Vegetable Boost: Enhance the nutritional value by stirring in some chopped spinach or kale during the last 10 minutes of cooking. You can also add diced sweet potato or butternut squash along with the carrots for extra sweetness and body.
Slow Cooker Version: For ultimate convenience, transform this into a slow cooker ham hock lentil soup. Simply combine all ingredients (except the fresh parsley) in your slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours until the hock is tender and lentils are soft.
Pressure Cooker Method: If you’re short on time, a pressure cooker can significantly cut down the cooking time. Follow the same initial steps, then cook on high pressure for 30-40 minutes with a natural release, resulting in a tender Ham Hock Lentil Soup much faster.