Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering aromas with this incredibly easy and delicious Crock Pot Beans with Ham recipe! Imagine coming home to a warm, hearty meal that practically cooks itself, filling your home with the irresistible scent of perfectly seasoned beans and savory ham. This classic American dish is not just a meal – it's a comforting embrace that will have your family rushing to the dinner table, eager to dig in!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 10 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 8 servings
Ingredients
- 2 cups dried beans (mixed variety)
- 1 cup diced ham
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by rinsing the dried beans under cold water to remove any dirt or debris. Check for any small stones or damaged beans and discard them.
- Soak the beans overnight in a large bowl with plenty of water, or use the quick soak method: bring the beans and water to a boil for 2 minutes, then remove from heat and let them sit for 1 hour.
- After soaking, drain the beans and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat a small amount of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent.
- Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- In the crock pot, combine the soaked and drained beans, sautéed onion and garlic, diced ham, chicken broth, and thyme. Stir well to combine all ingredients.
- Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Remember that the ham may already add some saltiness, so adjust accordingly.
- Cover the crock pot and set it to low heat. Allow the beans to cook for approximately 6 hours, or until they are tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally if possible.
- Once the cooking time is complete, taste the beans and adjust seasoning if necessary. If the beans are too thick, you can add a little more chicken broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
- Serve the crock pot beans with ham hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Tips
- Bean Preparation is Key: Always rinse and sort your beans before cooking to remove any debris or damaged beans. Soaking overnight or using the quick-soak method helps reduce cooking time and improves digestibility.
- Don't Oversalt: Ham is naturally salty, so go easy on the additional salt. You can always add more seasoning at the end of cooking.
- Low and Slow is the Secret: Cooking on low heat allows the beans to become tender and absorb all the delicious flavors without becoming mushy.
- Stir Occasionally: If possible, give your beans a gentle stir during cooking to ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking.
- Customize Your Flavor: Feel free to add a bay leaf, some smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce to personalize the recipe to your taste.
- Storage Tip: These beans freeze beautifully! Store in airtight containers for up to 3 months for a quick and easy future meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 40g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 20mg
