This warm and hearty dish features tender beans simmered with flavorful ham hocks. It’s the kind of comfort food that warms your soul on a chilly day!
Don’t be surprised if it becomes your favorite! I love how the ham hocks add a yummy smoky taste. Perfect to enjoy with some cornbread and share with friends!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Dried White Beans: Navy or great northern beans work best. They’re creamy and mild. If you want something different, try black beans or pinto beans. They will change the flavor a bit, but they’re great too!
Ham Hocks: The smoked flavor is key here. If you can’t find ham hocks, smoked turkey legs or necks are solid substitutes. You’ll still get that smoky goodness without missing a beat!
Onion, Carrots, and Garlic: These veggies build the base flavor of the dish. For a quick option, use pre-chopped onions and frozen chopped carrots. And don’t skip the garlic; it adds a lovely aroma!
Stock or Water: Using low-sodium chicken broth adds depth. If you prefer vegetarian, vegetable broth is an excellent choice! Just keep in mind it will alter the dish’s final taste.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Dried Beans?
Cooking dried beans can be simple when you follow these steps! Start by thoroughly rinsing the beans to get rid of any dirt. Soaking overnight helps them cook evenly and makes them more digestible. Here’s how:
- Soak them in plenty of water overnight, or use the quick soak method: Boil them for 2 minutes, then let them sit for an hour.
- After soaking, drain and rinse the beans before adding them to your pot. This reduces gas and improves flavor!
- Cook them slowly. Simmering uncovered lets excess moisture evaporate and helps them reach a creamy texture. Be patient, it’s worth it!
Enjoy the process of making this deliciously comforting dish!
Beans Cooked with Ham Hocks Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Stew:
- 1 lb dried white beans (such as navy or great northern beans)
- 2 smoked ham hocks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2-3 carrots, sliced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1-2 tsp dried thyme
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1-2 tbsp vegetable oil or bacon fat (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes for prep and about 2 hours for cooking. Make sure to soak the beans overnight, which adds a bit of time but makes them so much easier to cook. You’ll be rewarded with a hearty, flavorful stew that’s sure to comfort you!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Soak the Beans:
Start by rinsing the dried beans thoroughly to remove any dirt. Soak them overnight in plenty of water. This helps soften them and shorten the cooking time. When you’re ready to cook, drain and set them aside.
2. Cook the Vegetables:
In a large heavy pot or Dutch oven, heat the oil or bacon fat over medium heat. Toss in the chopped onion, sliced carrots, and minced garlic. Cook these until they become soft and fragrant, about 5 minutes. This is the base flavor for your stew!
3. Combine the Ingredients:
Now, add the soaked beans to the pot along with the smoked ham hocks, dried thyme, bay leaves, and the 6 cups of water or broth. Stir it all together, and make sure the ham hocks are nicely submerged.
4. Simmer the Stew:
Bring everything to a boil first, then reduce the heat to low. Let it simmer uncovered for about 1.5 to 2 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are tender and the flavors meld together deliciously. Check occasionally and stir to make sure nothing sticks to the bottom!
5. Shred the Ham Hocks:
Once the ham hocks are cooked through, remove them from the pot. Let them cool slightly so you can handle them. Shred the meat from the bone, discarding any skin and bones. Return this savory ham meat back into the pot of beans!
6. Season and Finish Cooking:
Give the beans a taste and sprinkle in salt and pepper as needed. Let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes so all the flavors meld together nicely. It’s all about that perfect taste!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Before serving, remember to remove and discard the bay leaves. Serve the hot, flavorful beans in bowls garnished with fresh parsley if desired. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or thick slices of crusty bread!
Enjoy your cozy bean stew with ham hocks! It’s perfect for sharing with friends and family!
Can I Use Canned Beans Instead of Dried Beans?
Yes, you can! If you’re short on time, use 2-3 cans of white beans (like navy or great northern). Just drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot later in the cooking process, about 30 minutes before serving. You’ll skip the soaking and long cooking time!
How Can I Store Leftover Beans?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. Add a splash of broth or water if they seem too thick!
What Other Meats Can I Use Instead of Ham Hocks?
If you can’t find ham hocks, consider using smoked turkey legs, bacon, or sausage for similar smoky flavors. Just be sure to adjust the cooking times based on the type of meat you choose, as some may cook faster than ham hocks.
Can I Make This Dish Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Skip the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For added flavor, you can toss in smoked paprika or liquid smoke to achieve that rich, smoky taste without the meat!
