Ham and Beans Recipe

Dried beans: These are the base of the dish and come in various types like navy, pinto, or black beans. They need to be soaked before cooking.

Diced ham: Adds a rich, savory flavor to the beans. You can use leftover ham or purchase pre-diced ham from the store.

Onion: Provides a sweet and aromatic base to the dish. It should be chopped finely.

Garlic: Adds depth and a slight pungency. Use fresh cloves and mince them for the best flavor.

Water: Used to cook the beans and create a broth. You can also use chicken or vegetable stock for added flavor.

Salt: Enhances the overall taste of the dish. Adjust to your preference.

Black pepper: Adds a bit of heat and complexity. Adjust to your taste.

When preparing dried beans, ensure they are thoroughly rinsed and sorted to remove any debris or damaged beans. For a quicker cooking time, use the quick soak method: bring the beans to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit, covered, for 1 hour. This will help soften the beans and reduce the overall cooking time. Additionally, adding the salt towards the end of the cooking process prevents the beans from becoming tough.

• dried beans - Substitute with canned beans: Canned beans are pre-cooked and can save time. Make sure to rinse and drain them before use.

• diced ham - Substitute with smoked turkey: Smoked turkey provides a similar smoky flavor and is a leaner option.

• diced ham - Substitute with bacon: Bacon adds a rich, smoky flavor but can be higher in fat. Use sparingly.

• chopped onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, sweeter flavor that can enhance the dish.

• chopped onion - Substitute with leeks: Leeks provide a subtle onion flavor and add a different texture.

• minced garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used in a pinch. Use ⅛ teaspoon per clove of garlic.

• minced garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can add a mild garlic-like flavor with a hint of sweetness.

• water - Substitute with chicken broth: Chicken broth adds depth and richness to the dish.

• water - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth is a good option for a vegetarian version, adding flavor without meat.

• salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds a savory umami flavor and can reduce the need for additional salt.

• black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.

• Allow the ham and beans to cool completely before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can lead to soggy beans and a less appealing texture.

• Transfer the cooled ham and beans into airtight containers. Glass containers with tight-fitting lids or high-quality plastic containers work best to maintain freshness.

• For short-term storage, place the containers in the refrigerator. The ham and beans will stay fresh for up to 4-5 days. Make sure to label the containers with the date to keep track of their freshness.

• If you plan to store the ham and beans for a longer period, freezing is the way to go. Portion the beans into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.

• To prevent freezer burn, ensure the containers or bags are sealed tightly. You can also use a vacuum sealer for an extra layer of protection.

• Label the freezer bags or containers with the date and contents. This will help you easily identify them later and keep track of how long they've been stored.

• When you're ready to enjoy your ham and beans, thaw them in the refrigerator overnight. This slow thawing process helps maintain the texture and flavor.

• Reheat the ham and beans on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. You can also use a microwave, but be sure to stir halfway through to ensure even heating.

• If the beans have thickened too much during storage, add a splash of water or broth to reach your desired consistency while reheating.

• Enjoy your reheated ham and beans as a comforting meal on its own, or pair it with a slice of cornbread or a side of steamed vegetables for a complete and satisfying dish.

• For stovetop reheating:

  1. Place the leftover ham and beans in a saucepan.
  2. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking.
  3. Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

• For microwave reheating:

  1. Transfer the ham and beans to a microwave-safe dish.
  2. Cover with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap with a small vent.
  3. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot.

• For oven reheating:

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
  2. Place the ham and beans in an oven-safe dish.
  3. Cover with aluminum foil to retain moisture.
  4. Bake for 20-30 minutes, or until heated through.

• For slow cooker reheating:

  1. Transfer the ham and beans to your slow cooker.
  2. Set to low heat.
  3. Heat for 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally, until thoroughly warmed.

• Large pot: Essential for cooking the beans and ham together, providing enough space for all ingredients and allowing them to simmer properly.

• Colander: Useful for rinsing and sorting the beans before soaking them.

• Knife: Necessary for chopping the onion and dicing the ham.

• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface for chopping the onion and dicing the ham.

• Measuring cups: Needed to measure the water accurately.

• Measuring spoons: Used to measure the salt and black pepper to taste.

• Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the ingredients in the pot to ensure even cooking.

• Garlic press: Handy for mincing the garlic cloves quickly and efficiently.

• Ladle: Useful for serving the warm ham and beans once they are cooked.

Use canned beans: Substitute dried beans with canned beans to skip the soaking and reduce cooking time.

Pre-chopped ingredients: Buy pre-chopped onion and pre-minced garlic to save prep time.

Instant pot: Use an Instant Pot to cook the beans and ham in under an hour.

Batch cooking: Make a large batch and freeze portions for quick meals later.

Pre-cooked ham: Use pre-cooked diced ham to cut down on cooking time.