Smoked neck bones simmered with white beans create a hearty, protein-packed Southern family soup. This budget-friendly, smoky dish is deeply comforting and perfect with a side of cornbread.
Pick over and rinse the dry white beans, then soak them overnight in plenty of cold water for the best texture.
Drain the beans. In a large pot over medium-high heat, brown the smoked neck bones for 3–4 minutes per side to boost depth of flavor.
Add the chopped onion, diced celery, and sliced carrot. Sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables just begin to soften.
Add the soaked beans, water, bay leaves, smashed garlic, dried thyme, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and skim any foam that rises.
Cover and simmer gently on low heat for 2–2.5 hours, stirring every 30 minutes, until the beans are creamy and the neck bones are very tender.
Remove the neck bones. When cool enough, pick off any meat and return it to the pot. Discard the bones and bay leaves. Stir in kosher salt to taste, simmer 10 minutes more, and adjust seasoning before serving.