southern brown beans recipe

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The Best southern brown beans recipe

Southern brown beans are a classic dish that holds a special place in my heart and on my family’s dinner table. This recipe has been passed down through generations, and it’s a comfort food that never fails to bring warmth and nostalgia.

The rich, hearty flavor of the beans, slow-cooked with aromatic seasonings, creates a dish that is both satisfying and full of tradition. My kids love it, and I love that it’s a healthy option packed with protein and fiber.

It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a potluck gathering. The best part is that this dish is incredibly versatile.

You can serve it as a main course with some cornbread or as a side dish to complement other Southern favorites like fried chicken or collard greens. The slow-cooking process brings out the natural sweetness of the beans and infuses them with a depth of flavor that is simply irresistible.

Plus the health benefits of the beans make it a guilt-free pleasure.

4.6 from 1294 votes

This traditional Southern brown beans recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that’s perfect for family dinners. The beans are slow-cooked with aromatic vegetables and seasonings to create a rich, flavorful stew.

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Prep Time15 mins

Cook Time2 hours 30 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time2 hours 45 mins

Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

2 cups dried brown beans

1 large onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 carrots, chopped

2 stalks celery, chopped

1 large ham hock

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes

4 cups chicken broth

1 tbsp salt

1 tsp black pepper

1 tsp paprika

1 tsp dried thyme

1 bay leaf

2 tbsp olive oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the dried beans thoroughly and pick out any stones or debris.

2Place the beans in a large pot and cover them with water.

3Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.

4Drain the beans and set them aside.

5In the same pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.

6Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery.

7Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes.

8Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for an additional 1 minute, until fragrant.

9Be careful not to burn the garlic.

10Add the drained beans, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, ham hock, salt, black pepper, paprika, thyme, and bay leaf to the pot.

11Stir well to combine.

12Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low.

13Cover the pot and let it simmer for about 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.

14Stir occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.

15Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat.

16Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well to combine.

17Taste and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.

18Remove the bay leaf before serving.

19Serve the brown beans hot with cornbread or crusty bread for a hearty and satisfying meal.

🔧Equipment

Large pot

Wooden spoon

Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 10g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 20mg🧂Sodium: 1200mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

You can substitute the ham hock with smoked sausage or bacon for a different flavor profile.

Southern brown beans are a timeless dish that brings comfort and tradition to any meal. The slow-cooking process and rich flavors make it a crowd-pleaser for family gatherings or everyday dinners.

This recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious, packed with protein and fiber. It’s a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with other Southern favorites.

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator or freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prepping. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or simply craving a hearty meal, this Southern brown beans recipe is always a good idea.

Plus, the slow cooking method is a great way to infuse the flavors and tenderize the beans. It’s a dish that will surely become a staple in your recipe collection.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Brown Beans

What type of beans should I use for this recipe?

You can use dried brown beans for this recipe. They are readily available and have a great texture and flavor when cooked slowly. Make sure to rinse and pick over the beans before using them.

Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

While you can use canned beans, the texture and flavor will be different from using dried beans. Canned beans are already cooked and may not hold up as well to the long cooking process. If you do use canned beans, add them towards the end of the cooking time to prevent them from becoming mushy.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can easily adapt this recipe for a slow cooker. Combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Add the ham hock and vegetables at the beginning and the shredded meat at the end.

How can I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze the beans for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a little water if needed to restore the consistency.

What can I serve with Southern brown beans?

Southern brown beans pair well with a variety of dishes. You can serve them with cornbread, crusty bread, or a side of collard greens. They also go well with fried chicken, BBQ, or any other Southern-inspired meal.

southern brown beans recipe

The Best southern brown beans recipe