Ham hocks are pork cured or smoked, similar to ham. They are often used as a flavoring agent in soups, stews, and other slow-cooked dishes. The meat surrounding the bone is typically tough and chewy, but it contains a lot of collagen that breaks down during cooking, imparting a rich, meaty flavor. Ham hocks are often used to add depth of flavor to dishes such as collard greens, black-eyed peas, bean soups, and southern green beans.