beans with ham bone recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best beans with ham bone recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my favorite beans with ham bone recipe that’s been a staple in our household for years. This hearty, comforting dish originated from traditional Southern cuisine and has been passed down through generations of home cooks.

The rich, savory flavor of the ham bone infuses into the beans, creating a deliciously tender and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a simple, satisfying meal for weeknights, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your household too.

One of the things I love about this recipe is how easy it is to make. Simply soak the beans overnight, then simmer them with the ham bone and some aromatics until they’re tender and flavorful.

It’s a great way to use up leftover ham or even cook a whole pork shoulder if you prefer. My kids adore helping me in the kitchen and learning how to cook this classic dish has been a highlight of their childhood.

The best part about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a main course, accompanied by some crusty bread or over rice, or even as a side dish for potlucks or picnics.

And because it’s so easy to make in bulk, you can freeze leftovers for future meals. I like to think of this recipe as a comforting hug in a bowl – it’s the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day or bring some joy to someone in need.

Beans with Ham Bone

4.9 from 1384 votes

A hearty and comforting dish featuring beans slow-cooked with a ham bone for rich flavor. This recipe is perfect for a family meal or a cozy dinner.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time4 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time5 hours 15 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Ingredients

1 lb dried beans (such as pinto or navy beans)
1 ham bone with some meat attached
1 large onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 carrots, chopped
2 stalks celery, chopped
1 bay leaf
1 tsp dried thyme
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups water
2 cups vegetable broth

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the beans under cold water and pick out any debris or damaged beans.
2Place the beans in a large bowl and cover them with water.
3Let them soak overnight or for at least 8 hours.
4This step helps to reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.
5Drain and rinse the beans before using.
6In a large pot, combine the soaked and drained beans, ham bone, onion, garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, salt, and pepper.
7Pour in the water and vegetable broth.
8Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
9Place the pot over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil.
10Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot with a lid, and let it simmer gently.
11This slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to become tender.
12Simmer the beans for about 2 to 3 hours, stirring occasionally to prevent the beans from sticking to the bottom of the pot.
13Check the beans for doneness by tasting them.
14They should be tender but not mushy.
15If the liquid level gets too low, add more water or broth as needed.
16As the beans cook, the ham bone will release its flavor into the broth, enriching the overall taste of the dish.
17Continue to simmer the beans for an additional 30 minutes to allow the flavors to deepen further.
18During this time, the beans will absorb more of the broth, resulting in a thicker, more flavorful dish.
19If the beans become too thick, thin them out with a bit more water or broth.
20If you prefer a thinner consistency, you can add more liquid.
21Once the cooking is complete, remove the bay leaf from the pot.
22Ladle the beans into bowls and serve them hot.
23Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish with crusty bread or cornbread on the side.
24This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

🔧Equipment

Large pot with lid
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: For a spicier dish, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the pot. You can also add other vegetables like bell peppers or potatoes for extra flavor and nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Beans with Ham Bone Works

This beans with ham bone recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a simple meal for weeknights.

One of my favorite ways to serve it is with some crusty bread or cornbread on the side – just be sure to save some leftovers for future meals!

If you’re looking for ideas on how to store and reheat these delicious beans, simply transfer them to an airtight container after cooking and refrigerate for up to 5 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Beans with Ham Bone

1. What type of beans should I use for this recipe?

For this recipe, I prefer using dried pinto beans, but you can also use kidney beans or even black beans if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Can I use fresh ham instead of dried?

Yes, you can use fresh ham instead of dried if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels accordingly.

3. How long do I need to soak the beans?

You’ll want to soak the beans overnight for at least 8 hours, but you can also soak them for 12-24 hours if you prefer.

4. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply brown the ham bone and aromatics in a skillet before adding them to your slow cooker along with the soaked beans and liquid.

5. What are some good side dishes to serve with this recipe?

Serve this hearty bean dish with some crusty bread or cornbread for an easy meal. You can also pair it with roasted vegetables or grilled meats for added flavor and texture.

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