For some people, ham hock is a necessary part of this dish. For others, the fat content in ham hocks makes them undesirable for health reasons. I use smoked turkey necks in my red beans instead of ham hock for a healthier version. Ham hock adds a great flavor but isn't the best for health since they're so fatty. Using smoked turkey necks still imparts the smoky flavor ham hock add but also will shred as they cook in the instant pot giving us another meat option in this delicious pot of red beans and rice.