Prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport you straight to the heart of traditional American comfort food! This Salt Pork Beans and Hominy recipe is not just a meal—it's a delicious time machine that captures the rustic flavors of generations past. Imagine a dish so rich and satisfying that it warms your soul with every single bite, combining the robust saltiness of pork, the creamy texture of beans, and the unique chewiness of hominy. Whether you're a food history enthusiast or simply craving a deeply comforting meal, this recipe promises to be a show-stopper that will have your family and friends begging for seconds!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 2 hrs
Total Time: 2 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound salt pork
- 2 cups hominy
- 1 can beans (your choice)
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Water as needed
Instructions
- Rinse the dried hominy thoroughly under cold water to remove any debris or dust. If using dried hominy, soak it overnight in water to soften.
- Cut the salt pork into small, quarter-inch cubes. Place the cubed salt pork in a large, heavy-bottomed pot and cook over medium heat to render the fat, stirring occasionally until the pieces become crispy and golden brown.
- Add diced onions to the rendered fat and sauté until they become translucent and slightly caramelized, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- Mince the garlic and add to the pot, cooking for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
- Drain and rinse the canned beans, then add them to the pot along with the prepared hominy.
- Pour in enough water to cover the ingredients by about two inches. The liquid should be clear and not too salty from the salt pork.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pot. Simmer slowly, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Cook for approximately 2 hours or until hominy is tender and the liquid has reduced to a thick, rich consistency. Add additional water if needed during cooking.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. The salt pork will provide most of the seasoning, so additional salt may not be required.
- Remove from heat and let rest for 10 minutes before serving. The dish will continue to thicken as it cools.
- Serve hot in deep bowls, ensuring each serving has a good mix of salt pork, beans, and hominy.
Tips
- Hominy Preparation: If using dried hominy, always soak it overnight to ensure even cooking and optimal texture.
- Salt Pork Technique: Render the fat slowly to achieve those crispy, golden-brown pieces that add incredible depth of flavor.
- Low and Slow is the Way: Simmer the dish on low heat to allow the flavors to meld together and create a rich, thick consistency.
- Liquid Management: Keep an eye on the water level during cooking, adding more if the mixture becomes too dry.
- Salt Wisely: The salt pork is naturally salty, so taste before adding additional salt to avoid over-seasoning.
- Resting Period: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes after cooking to allow the flavors to settle and the consistency to thicken.
- Serving Suggestion: Serve in deep bowls to capture all the delicious liquid and ensure each serving has a perfect mix of ingredients.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 45mg
