pinto beans with ham recipe

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

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite pinto beans with ham recipe. This dish has been a staple in our household for as long as I can remember, and for good reason – it’s easy to make, delicious, and packed with nutrients. Pinto beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and minerals like potassium and iron.

The addition of ham gives the dish a nice salty flavor that complements the beans perfectly. My kids love helping me cook this recipe, and it’s always a hit at family gatherings. In fact, I often get requests for seconds (and even thirds!)

from my family members. The best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile – you can serve it as a side dish, add it to tacos or salads, or even use it as a filling for sandwiches.

I’ve tried making this recipe with different types of ham, but I find that a good-quality prosciutto or bacon works best. The key to making this recipe is to cook the pinto beans until they’re tender but still hold their shape – this ensures that they don’t become mushy or overcooked. To do this, simply cook the beans in water or broth until they’re done, then set them aside while you prepare the rest of the dish.

With these simple steps and a bit of patience, you’ll be enjoying a delicious and satisfying meal in no time.

Pinto Beans with Ham

Pinto Beans with Ham

4.8 from 1772 votes

A hearty and comforting dish of tender pinto beans simmered with smoky ham, onions, and garlic. This slow-cooked meal is perfect for a cozy dinner and pairs well with cornbread or rice.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 45 mins
Servings: 8Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 320 kcal

🥘Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound dried pinto beans, rinsed and sorted
1 pound smoked ham hock or 1 1/2 cups diced cooked ham
1 large onion, chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 bay leaf

Optional Garnish

Fresh cilantro, chopped
Lime wedges

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed pinto beans in a large pot and cover with water by 2 inches.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10 minutes.
3Remove from heat, cover, and let the beans soak for 1 hour.
4Drain and rinse the beans, then set aside.
5In the same pot, heat a drizzle of oil over medium heat.
6Add the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
7Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
8Add the drained beans, ham hock (or diced ham), 6 cups of water or broth, salt, pepper, cumin, and bay leaf to the pot.
9Stir to combine.
10Increase heat to high and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 1 1/2 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.
11If using a ham hock, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly.
12Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat, discarding the bone and any fat.
13Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir well.
14Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
15Remove the bay leaf before serving.
16Ladle the beans into bowls and garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice if desired.
17Serve hot with cornbread or rice.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Cutting board
Chef’s knife
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 320 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 700mg🌾Total Carbs: 42g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 3g🥩Protein: 20g

📝Notes

For a thicker consistency, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon before serving. You can also add a diced jalapeno or a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Watch Video Of How Pinto Beans with Ham Works

This pinto beans with ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or want to impress your guests at a family gathering. To store leftover pinto beans with ham, simply refrigerate them in an airtight container for up to three days.

Reheating is easy – just add some broth or water to revive the flavors. When reheating, be sure to check on the consistency first – if it’s too dry, add more liquid; if it’s too wet, add more cooked beans.

Serve over rice or enjoy as is – either way, this dish is sure to please!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Pinto Beans with Ham

Q: What type of ham should I use in this recipe?

A: You can use any type of ham you like in this recipe, but I find that a good-quality prosciutto or bacon works best.

Q: Can I make this recipe with canned pinto beans?

A: Yes, you can use canned pinto beans if you prefer – just drain and rinse them before using them in the recipe.

Q: How do I know when the pinto beans are cooked?

A: Simply cook the beans in water or broth until they’re tender but still hold their shape – this ensures that they don’t become mushy or overcooked.

Q: Can I store leftover pinto beans with ham in the fridge?

A: Yes, you can store leftover pinto beans with ham in the fridge for up to three days – just reheat them when you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

A: No, this recipe contains ham and is not suitable for vegetarians.

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