by Francis Jock

Created on: January 23, 2009   Last Updated: May 02, 2012

Recipe for Indian Corn Soup, a traditional Native American food which is prepared for special occasions and gatherings.

Years ago, corn soup was made with "Indian White Corn" not unlike hominy in appearance, although it is very difficult to come by today. True white corn has a very hard outer shell which is softened by boiling the corn in a mixture of wood ashes. Lye is formed when hardwood ashes are mixed with water and boiled. Softwood, such as pine, and other materials should never be used. After the white corn was softened and clean, it can be dried and stored, or added to the kettle for making this delicious combination of wild game and nutritious vegetables.

Canned hominy, on the other hand is a good substitute and available in the local supermarket. The tasty combination of hominy, ham hocks and kidney beans produces an unforgettable savory soup that you are sure to look forward to during winter's coldest days. When served with freshly baked corn bread or Fry Bread, Indian Corn Soup is a real belly-warmer.

Ingredients:

2- 4 Large Ham Hocks (fresh or smoked).

* Note: Some people don't like the flavor of smoked hocks.

* Note: Venison or other wild game meat such as bear, buffalo or elk may be used here, but cooking time must be adjusted for the type of meat.

1 small turnip

1 or 2 cups cabbage

1 or 2 cups of carrots

2 cans kidney beans

2 cans of hominy

* Note: Authentic Indian White Corn, if you can get it, can be used here. Be sure to adjust the cooking time.

Salt and Pepper to taste

Optional Ingredients:

* Instead of Pork Hocks you can substitute Plate beef chunks, venison, bear, elk, or buffalo.

Directions:

Add enough water to a large pot to cover ham hocks

Bring to a boil and then reduce heat to medium

Add carrots and turnip

Cook about 2 hours, until hocks are tender or done

When completely cooked, remove hocks and remove the meat from the bone

Return the meat to the pot and add remaining vegetables

Cook soup until heated through

*Note: If you allow the soup to cool a bit, you can skim off the fat that will rise to the top. Just reheat the soup and then serve.

This is a delicious mid-winter comfort food that is served with freshly baked corn bread, butter, a fresh pot of steaming coffee and plenty of laughter around the dinner table. Be sure to top your meal off with a good dessert, such as pumpkin, strawberry or squash pie. Another good food to serve with this meal, and really makes it a belly-buster is Indian Fry Bread topped with strawberry jam, maple syurp and powdered sugar. Strawberry drink, made from fresh strawberries without added sugar, is also served with this meal.

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