taste to check the seasoning and add salt and pepper if needed (the stock will be quite salty). Stir in the ham, allow to warm through in the hot soup and then serve, garnished with a few mint leaves.
Discard ham hock and bay leaves; shred ham with forks. Taste and adjust seasoning, if necessary. Optional: Run an immersion blender through the soup for a few seconds for a thicker broth.