I’ve been making Great Northern Beans Ham Recipe for years, and it’s a staple in our household. My kids love it because it’s easy to make and packed with protein. I love it because it’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for busy weeknights.
The dish originated in the Midwest, where Great Northern beans were a staple crop. They have a mild flavor and a creamy texture that pairs well with the smoky flavor of ham. To make this recipe, you’ll need to soak the beans overnight, then sauté them with some onions and garlic before adding in diced ham and your choice of seasonings.
The key to this recipe is using a combination of liquid smoke and brown sugar to give the dish a rich, depth of flavor. I like to serve it over rice or with some crusty bread on the side. It’s a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
My family requests it frequently, especially during the winter months when we’re all looking for something warm and satisfying. I’ve also made it for potlucks and gatherings, and it’s always a hit. The best part about this recipe is that it’s incredibly versatile – you can customize it to suit your tastes by adding in different spices or using different types of meat.
I’ve even made it with vegetarian options like tempeh or tofu for my plant-based friends.
Hearty Great Northern Beans and Ham
4.6 from 1884 votes
A comforting and flavorful soup made with tender great northern beans and smoky ham. This slow-simmered dish is perfect for a cozy meal and is packed with protein and fiber.
1 pound dried great northern beans, rinsed and picked over
1 meaty ham bone or 1 pound ham hocks
8 cups chicken broth or water
1 large onion, chopped
2 carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 bay leaf
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
2 cups diced cooked ham
👨🍳Directions
1Place the dried beans in a large bowl and cover with water by 2 inches.
2Let them soak overnight, or use the quick soak method: bring the beans and water to a boil, boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat, cover, and let stand for 1 hour.
3Drain and rinse the beans before using.
4In a large stockpot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat, combine the soaked beans, ham bone or hocks, and 8 cups of chicken broth or water.
5Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer gently.
6Cook for 1 hour, skimming off any foam that rises to the surface.
7After 1 hour, add the chopped onion, diced carrots, diced celery, minced garlic, bay leaf, dried thyme, and black pepper to the pot.
8Stir everything together, then cover and continue to simmer over low heat for another 1 to 1. 5 hours, until the beans are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
9Remove the ham bone or hocks from the pot and place them on a cutting board.
10Once cool enough to handle, pull off any meat from the bone, discarding the bone and any fat or gristle.
11Shred or dice the meat into bite-sized pieces.
12Return the shredded ham meat to the pot along with the 2 cups of diced cooked ham.
13Stir well and let the soup simmer uncovered for 10 to 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
14Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
For a thicker soup, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon before adding the ham. This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker: combine all ingredients except the diced ham and cook on low for 8 hours, then add the ham and cook for 30 more minutes.
Watch Video Of How Hearty Great Northern Beans and Ham Works
This great northern beans and ham recipe is always a good idea for any occasion. It works perfectly for family gatherings because it is easy to make in large batches and everyone seems to love it.
The leftovers taste even better the next day, so I often double the recipe on purpose. For storage, let the soup cool completely and keep it in the fridge for up to 4 days.
To reheat, just warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if it has thickened too much. You can also serve it over rice or with a side of sautéed greens for a complete meal.
It is a versatile, hearty dish that never disappoints.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Hearty Great Northern Beans and Ham
1. Do I need to soak the great northern beans before cooking?
Yes, soaking the beans overnight helps them cook more evenly and reduces the cooking time. If you are short on time, you can do a quick soak by boiling the beans for 2 minutes and then letting them sit for 1 hour. Drain and rinse before using.
2. Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?
Absolutely. A meaty ham bone or ham hock works best for flavor, but you can also use diced cooked ham or a ham steak. Just adjust the salt in the recipe since some ham is saltier than others.
3. How long does this soup take to cook?
If you soak the beans overnight, the soup takes about 1.5 to 2 hours on the stovetop. Without soaking, it can take 2.5 to 3 hours. A slow cooker works well too, cooking on low for 6 to 8 hours.
4. Can I freeze leftover great northern beans and ham soup?
Yes, this soup freezes very well. Let it cool completely, then store it in airtight containers for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop or microwave.
5. What can I add to make this recipe more flavorful?
You can add a bay leaf, a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat, or a splash of apple cider vinegar at the end to brighten the flavors. Some people also add carrots or celery for extra texture.
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