brown beans and ham recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
brown beans and ham recipe
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The Best brown beans and ham recipe

I am so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes, brown beans and ham. This dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours as well. The recipe originated from my grandmother, who was an excellent cook and always made sure to pass down her knowledge to me.

She would often make this dish for special occasions, like holidays and family gatherings, but it’s also a great option for a weeknight dinner. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it perfect for busy families like mine. The combination of brown beans, ham, and spices is absolutely delicious.

The beans are cooked to perfection, and the ham adds a nice smokiness to the dish. I love serving this recipe over rice or with some crusty bread on the side. It’s also a great option for meal prep, as you can make a big batch on the weekend and have leftovers for the rest of the week.

One of the key home cooking techniques that makes this recipe so special is the use of slow cooking. By cooking the beans and ham in a crock pot or on low heat on the stovetop, you can infuse all the flavors together and create a rich, velvety texture that’s just divine. I’ve made this recipe countless times over the years, and every time I do, I’m reminded of my grandmother’s love and care that went into creating it.

She would always say that good food brings people together, and I couldn’t agree more. This brown beans and ham recipe is more than just a meal – it’s a way to connect with loved ones and create lasting memories.

Brown Beans and Ham

Brown Beans and Ham

4.8 from 1559 votes

A hearty and comforting dish of tender brown beans simmered with smoky ham. This classic meal is perfect for a cold day and is often served with cornbread or rice.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time2 hours 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time2 hours 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans

1 pound dried brown beans, rinsed and picked over
8 cups water
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)

For the Ham

1 pound smoked ham hock or ham shank
1 tablespoon vegetable oil

👨‍🍳Directions

1Place the rinsed brown beans in a large pot and add 8 cups of water.
2Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and let the beans simmer, covered, for 1 hour.
3While the beans are simmering, heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
4Add the ham hock and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, turning occasionally, until it is browned on all sides.
5After 1 hour, add the browned ham hock, chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the pot with the beans.
6Stir to combine and bring the mixture back to a simmer over medium heat.
7Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans and ham simmer for another 1 to 1.
5 hours.
8Stir occasionally and check for doneness; the beans should be tender and creamy, and the ham should be falling off the bone.
9Remove the ham hock from the pot and let it cool slightly.
10Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat from the bone, discarding any fat and skin.
11Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine.
12Taste the beans and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
13Serve hot, spooned over rice or with a side of cornbread.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 4g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 12g🍬Sugars: 4g🥩Protein: 22g

📝Notes

Soaking the beans overnight in water can reduce cooking time by about 30 minutes. For a thicker broth, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving.

Watch Video Of How Brown Beans and Ham Works

This brown beans and ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether it’s a holiday feast or a weeknight dinner. It’s easy to make in bulk and can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the fridge or reheat in the microwave until hot through. One of my favorite ways to serve this recipe is with some crusty bread on the side – it’s perfect for dipping into the savory juices.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Brown Beans and Ham

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

In this recipe, I prefer to use pinto beans or navy beans. Both types have a mild flavor and hold up well to the slow-cooking process.

Q: Can I customize this recipe with other spices or herbs?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite spices or herbs to give this recipe your own twist. Some popular options include cumin, chili powder, or dried oregano.

Q: How long does it take to cook this recipe?

The cooking time will depend on whether you’re using a crock pot or stovetop method. If using a crock pot, simply cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours. If using stovetop method, cook on low heat for 2-3 hours or until the beans are tender.

Q: Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Simply cook the beans and ham as instructed, then refrigerate or freeze until ready to serve.

Q: What’s the best way to serve this recipe?

Serve hot over rice or with some crusty bread on the side. You can also add some diced onions or bell peppers for added flavor.

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