wikiHow Ham Hock Recipe Ingredients: * 2 smoked ham hocks * 1 large onion, chopped * 3 cloves garlic, minced * 2 celery stalks, chopped * 2 carrots, chopped * 1 bay leaf * 1 tsp dried thyme * 1 tsp black pepper * 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth * 2 cups water * Optional: hot sauce, vinegar Instructions: Rinse the ham hocks under cold water and pat dry. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the ham hocks and cook until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes. Add the onion, garlic, celery, and carrots to the pot and sauté until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 5 minutes. Add the bay leaf, thyme, black pepper, broth, and water to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 2-3 hours, or until the meat is tender and falling off the bone. Remove the ham hocks from the pot and let cool slightly. Remove the meat from the bones and chop into small pieces. Discard the bones and any fat or gristle. Return the chopped meat to the pot and stir to combine. If the mixture is too thick, add additional water or broth as needed. Serve hot, garnished with hot sauce and vinegar if desired. This ham hock recipe is great as a main dish or as a flavorful addition to soups, stews, or collard greens. Page