beans and ham recipe

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

I’m so excited to share with you one of my family’s favorite recipes – beans and ham. This hearty dish has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a regular in yours too. The beans and ham recipe is a perfect combination of flavors and textures that will leave everyone asking for seconds.

The sweetness of the beans pairs perfectly with the savory flavor of the ham, making it a match made in heaven. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to make and can be prepared in under an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. I first discovered this recipe at a family gathering where my aunt would make it for every holiday.

It quickly became a tradition in our family, and now my kids love helping me make it for our own family gatherings. The best part about this recipe is that it’s so versatile – you can serve it as a main course or as a side dish. My kids love helping me portion out the beans and ham into little containers, making it feel like a fun and interactive meal.

The health benefits of this recipe are also a big plus in my book. With the high fiber content from the beans and the lean protein from the ham, this dish is a great option for families looking to eat healthier without sacrificing flavor. Plus, the leftovers are just as delicious, making it perfect for meal prep or packing lunches for school.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how easy it is to customize to your taste preferences. If you’re not a fan of strong-tasting foods, you can always substitute in some milder ingredients like diced onions or bell peppers. And if you’re feeling adventurous, you can add in some extra spices like cumin or chili powder to give it an extra kick.

In terms of cooking technique, this recipe is all about slow cooking. By letting the beans and ham simmer together on low heat for at least an hour, you’ll end up with tender, fall-apart texture that’s just irresistible. And don’t even get me started on the aroma – the smell alone will have everyone at the table begging for more.

Hearty Beans and Ham

Hearty Beans and Ham

4.8 from 1937 votes

A comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender beans and savory ham simmered in a rich broth. This one-pot meal is perfect for a satisfying dinner on a cold evening.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time1 hour 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hour 45 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 380 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Beans and Ham

1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 pound ham steak, cut into 1/2-inch cubes
4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
2 cups water
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Salt to taste

👨‍🍳Directions

1Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering.
2Add the diced onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
3Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
4Add the cubed ham to the pot and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly browned on all sides, about 5 minutes.
5Pour in the chicken broth and water, then add the soaked and drained navy beans, bay leaf, dried thyme, black pepper, and cayenne if using.
6Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
7Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the beans simmer gently for 1 to 1.
5 hours.
8Stir occasionally and check for doneness after 1 hour; the beans should be tender and creamy when pressed between your fingers or against the side of the pot.
9Remove the bay leaf and season with salt to taste before serving.

🔧Equipment

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

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 380 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 2g❤️Cholesterol: 45mg🧂Sodium: 900mg🌾Total Carbs: 48g🥦Dietary Fiber: 16g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 28g

📝Notes

Soaking the beans overnight reduces cooking time and improves texture. For a thicker broth, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot before serving. This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld.

Watch Video Of How Hearty Beans and Ham Works

This beans and ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special family gathering.

The leftovers are just as delicious so don’t worry about having too much food – just store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

When reheating, simply place them back on low heat until warmed through.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Beans and Ham

Q: What type of beans should I use?

In this recipe, I recommend using either navy beans or pinto beans as they hold their shape well after cooking.

Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?

Yes, you can use canned beans as a substitute but be aware that they will have a softer texture than dried beans.

Q: How long does it take to cook?

This recipe takes approximately 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes to cook depending on how long you let the beans simmer.

Q: Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make this recipe in a slow cooker by cooking the ingredients on low heat for 6-8 hours.

Q: What if I don’t have any ham?

You can substitute bacon or another cured meat if you don’t have any ham.

Q: Can I add vegetables like carrots or potatoes?

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