1 lb dried navy beans (or great Northern), soaked overnight
1 meaty ham hock (about 1.5 lbs)
8 cups water (or chicken broth for extra flavor)
1 onion, diced
2 carrots, chopped
2 celery stalks, chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
✅ Flavor Boosters
2 bay leaves
1 tsp dried thyme
½ tsp black pepper
1 tbsp apple cider vinegar (brightens the broth!)
Salt to taste (add after cooking—ham hock is salty!)
🎯 Optional Upgrades
1 can diced tomatoes
Handful of kale or spinach (stir in at the end)
