HAM AND BEANS

Ham and Beans is a comforting, hearty dish that brings together the savory flavor of tender ham with the rich, earthy taste of beans. This dish is a classic favorite, perfect for cooler weather or when you need a satisfying, budget-friendly meal. The beans soak up all the flavors from the ham and seasonings, creating a deliciously smoky and savory broth. Whether you use leftover ham or start fresh with ham hocks or bone-in ham, this recipe is a great way to make a filling meal that can feed a crowd. Paired with cornbread or crusty bread, Ham and Beans is a classic, cozy meal everyone will love.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound dried navy beans (or other white beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf
• 4 cups chicken broth (or water)
• 2 cups ham, diced (use leftover ham or ham hocks)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Optional: 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (for a little tang)
• Optional: Chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Beans: If you’re using dried beans, rinse them thoroughly and remove any debris. You can either soak the beans overnight in water or use the quick-soak method by bringing them to a boil, then letting them sit covered for about 1 hour before draining.
2. Sauté the Aromatics: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened. Add the minced garlic, smoked paprika, and dried thyme, and cook for another 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently, until fragrant.
3. Simmer the Beans: Add the soaked (or unsoaked) beans to the pot, along with the chicken broth or water and bay leaf. Stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender. Check occasionally and add more liquid if necessary to keep the beans covered.
4. Add the Ham: Once the beans are tender, add the diced ham and continue cooking for an additional 20-30 minutes. If you’re using ham hocks, you can remove the bones at this point and discard them.
5. Season and Serve: Taste the soup and add salt and pepper as needed. For a little extra tang, stir in a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
6. Garnish and Enjoy: Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired. Pair with cornbread or crusty bread for a filling, comforting meal.

Ham and Beans is a nourishing dish that’s full of flavor and easy to make. The combination of tender beans and smoky ham is comforting and satisfying, making this a perfect meal for chilly nights or any time you crave something hearty and delicious.