Ham And Bean In Your Slow Cooker

Growing up, I had a list of foods I wasn’t fond of, and ham and beans was right at the top. Despite my mom’s best efforts every now and then, I never quite developed a taste for the dish. It wasn’t until I started my own food blog that it popped back into my mind, thanks to a reader’s request for budget-friendly recipes. Suddenly, the idea of ham and beans seemed like a perfect fit—simple, hearty, and surprisingly economical. That got me thinking: I enjoy ham, and I like beans, so why not give ham and beans another try?

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Ham and Bean recipe is a breeze to make in your slow cooker, leaving you with a comforting meal that fills your home with a delicious aroma. It’s an affordable dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, and it’s packed with protein and flavor.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Slow cooker
• Large bowl for soaking beans
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Ingredients

• 2 meaty ham bones
• 2 cups dry Great Northern beans
• 2 cups chopped celery
• 1 large onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 8-9 cups chicken stock
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare dried beans by soaking them in cold water for 8-10 hours, then drain and rinse.
2. Place all ingredients in your slow cooker, except salt.
3. Heat on HIGH for 4 to 6 hours or until beans are tender.
4. Remove ham bone. Chop ham from bone and return to slow cooker. Cover until heated through, about 5 minutes.
5. Season to taste with salt. The beans may already be salty enough, so taste the beans before adding salt.

Tips for Success

Ensure to soak your beans well to reduce cooking time and improve texture. Also, taste the beans before adding salt since the ham and chicken stock might already provide enough seasoning.

Additional Tips and Variations

You can substitute Great Northern beans with your favorite type of bean. For an extra flavor boost, try adding a bay leaf or some thyme sprigs to the slow cooker.

Nutritional Highlights (Per Serving)

This recipe is high in protein and provides a good amount of fiber, thanks to the beans. It’s also relatively low in fat, especially if you trim the ham before cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I use canned beans instead of dried? Yes, but reduce the cooking time significantly as canned beans are already cooked.

What if I don’t have a slow cooker? You can simmer the ingredients on the stovetop over low heat until the beans are tender.

How do I store leftovers? Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, or freeze for up to 3 months.

Conclusion

I hope this Ham and Bean recipe wins over any doubters in your household just as it did for me. It’s a comforting, nostalgic meal that’s easy to prepare and perfect for feeding a crowd. Give it a try, and don’t forget to share your results and any creative twists you add. Enjoy!