Ham And Beans Recipe: 5 Expert Tips For Creamy Flavor
Warm up with this hearty, old-fashioned ham and beans recipe—a comforting favorite that’s easy, flavorful, and perfect for using leftover ham.
Classic Ham and Beans Recipe
There are few dishes as comforting and nourishing as a steaming bowl of ham and beans. This traditional recipe combines creamy great Northern beans, savory ham, and simple aromatics to create a cozy meal perfect for chilly evenings, family gatherings, or a satisfying weeknight dinner. Whether you’re making use of leftover holiday ham or starting from scratch, this dish is as economical as it is delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried great Northern beans
- ½ pound cooked ham, diced
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- ½ cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon dried parsley
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Water (enough to cover beans)
Optional additions: A pinch of cayenne pepper, a bay leaf, or a diced carrot for extra flavor and color.
Preparation Steps
- Sort and Rinse the Beans: Begin by sorting through the dried beans to remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse well under cool running water.
- Soak the Beans: Place the rinsed beans in a large pot and cover with cold water (at least two inches above the beans). Allow them to soak overnight, or use a quick-soak method by boiling the beans for 1-2 minutes and letting them sit, off the heat, for an hour.
- Drain and Rinse: After soaking, drain the beans and rinse them with fresh water to remove some of the oligosaccharides that can cause digestive discomfort.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the soaked beans back to the pot, then add enough water to cover by about 2 inches. Stir in the diced ham, onion, brown sugar, and dried parsley. Season lightly with salt and pepper (you can adjust later).
- Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil. Reduce the heat to low and cover. Simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender. Stir occasionally and check the water level—add more if needed to keep the beans just covered.
- Season and Serve: Once the beans are soft and creamy and the ham is fully heated, taste and adjust the seasoning. Remove any bay leaves if used. Serve hot with cornbread or crusty bread.
Tips for the Best Ham and Beans
- Type of Beans: Great Northern beans are traditional for this recipe, but navy beans or cannellini beans can also be used.
- Ham Options: Leftover ham, a ham bone, or even smoked ham hocks all add wonderful depth of flavor. The bone or hock can be simmered with the beans for extra richness, then removed before serving.
- Flavor Boosters: Try adding a pinch of cayenne for gentle heat, a bay leaf for herbal aroma, or diced carrots and celery for extra nutrition and color.
- For Creamier Beans: During the last 15 minutes of cooking, mash some of the beans against the side of the pot to thicken the broth.
- Make Ahead: Ham and beans taste even better the next day, making it an excellent make-ahead meal for busy weeks.
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient (per serving) | Amount | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 262 | 13% |
| Total Fat | 4g | 5% |
| Saturated Fat | 1g | 6% |
| Cholesterol | 17mg | 6% |
| Sodium | 528mg | 23% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 40g | 15% |
| Dietary Fiber | 12g | 44% |
| Protein | 18g | 35% |
| Vitamin C | 6mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 123mg | 9% |
| Iron | 4mg | 19% |
| Potassium | 972mg | 21% |
Nutrition values are approximate and based on 8 servings.
Serving Suggestions
- Cornbread: A slice of fresh cornbread makes a classic and hearty accompaniment.
- Crusty Bread: Serve with a wedge of artisan bread or rolls to soak up the flavorful broth.
- Green Salad: Add a crisp salad on the side for balance and freshness.
Storing and Reheating
- Refrigeration: Let leftovers cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Ham and beans freeze well. Divide into freezer-safe containers and keep frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
- Reheating: Warm on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the soup has thickened too much. Stir frequently to prevent scorching.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use canned beans instead of dried?
A: Yes, you can substitute three 15-ounce cans of drained and rinsed beans for the dried beans. Reduce the simmering time to 30–40 minutes, as the beans are already cooked.
Q: What’s the best ham to use?
A: Any cooked ham works well, including leftovers from a baked ham, a ham steak, or even a smoked ham hock. Using a ham bone adds rich, savory depth to the broth.
Q: Can I make this in a slow cooker?
A: Absolutely! After soaking the beans, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 7–8 hours or on high for 4–5 hours, until the beans are tender.
Q: How do I prevent beans from splitting or becoming mushy?
A: Simmer beans gently and avoid vigorous boiling. Acidic ingredients (like tomatoes or vinegar) can make beans tough if added too early—add these only at the end if desired.
Q: Is ham and beans gluten-free?
A: Yes, the base recipe is gluten-free. Just be sure your ham and seasonings do not contain any gluten-containing additives.
Community Tips and Variations
- Add Vegetables: Stir in diced carrots and celery for added nutrition and flavor.
- Try Seasoning Blends: Smoked paprika, thyme, or a splash of hot sauce add new dimensions of taste.
- Go Smoky: Use a smoked ham hock or add a dash of liquid smoke for a deeper flavor profile.
- Make It Creamy: For an extra creamy texture, blend a portion of the beans and stir back into the pot.
Troubleshooting Guide
- Beans Still Tough? Ensure that beans are soaked long enough and simmered gently. Hard water and acidic ingredients can also interfere with softening—use filtered water if possible, and add acids at the end.
- Soup Too Thick? Thin with a little extra water or broth as needed.
- Soup Too Thin? Uncover the pot and simmer to reduce, or mash some beans to thicken.
- Too Salty? Add a peeled potato to simmer for 15–20 minutes, then remove it. This can help absorb some excess salt.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Budget-friendly and pantry-friendly
- Perfect for using up leftover ham
- Rich in protein and dietary fiber
- Freezer-friendly for make-ahead meals
- Simple, classic flavors the whole family enjoys
Conclusion
Ham and beans is more than a simple meal—it’s a beloved classic that brings warmth, nourishment, and nostalgia to the table. With its wholesome ingredients and comforting taste, this recipe is bound to become a repeat favorite in your home, whether you’re cooking for a crowd or prepping meals for the week. Enjoy this timeless dish with friends and family, and make it your own with tips, tricks, and tasty variations.
References
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