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Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham

 

That sounds like a delicious and comforting dish! Let’s turn it into a formal recipe:

Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham

Ingredients:

  • 2 ham steaks, diced
  • 1 pound dried white beans (such as navy beans or great northern beans), rinsed and sorted
  • 1 carton (32 ounces) chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

Instructions:

  1. Rinse and sort the dried white beans, removing any debris or shriveled beans. Place them in the slow cooker insert.
  2. Add the diced ham steaks on top of the beans in the slow cooker.
  3. Pour in the chicken broth and water, ensuring that the beans and ham are submerged.
  4. Season the mixture with onion powder, black pepper, dried parsley, salt, and smoked paprika. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cover the slow cooker with the lid and cook on high heat for 6-7 hours, or until the beans are tender and creamy. Stir occasionally, if possible.
  6. Once the beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  7. Serve the white beans and ham hot, garnished with additional chopped parsley if desired. Enjoy this hearty and flavorful dish as a comforting meal on its own, or pair it with crusty bread or a side salad for a complete dinner.
  8. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat before serving, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the mixture.

This Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham recipe is sure to warm you up and satisfy your cravings for a delicious and comforting meal!

Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham is already a comforting classic, but here are some tips to take it up a notch:

  1. Quality Ingredients: Start with high-quality beans and a good cut of ham. Fresh herbs and vegetables also make a big difference.
  2. Soak the Beans: If you have time, soak the beans overnight before cooking. This helps to soften them and reduce cooking time.
  3. Layer Flavors: Sauté onions, garlic, and any other aromatics before adding them to the slow cooker. This builds a depth of flavor.
  4. Add Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, and spices like smoked paprika or cumin for extra flavor.
  5. Use Stock: Instead of plain water, use chicken or vegetable stock to cook the beans. It adds richness and depth to the dish.
  6. Splash of Acid: A splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice added towards the end of cooking can brighten up the flavors.
  7. Vegetable Variation: Consider adding vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
  8. Creamy Texture: Mash some of the beans towards the end of cooking to thicken the broth and create a creamy texture.
  9. Finish with Fresh Ingredients: Stir in fresh chopped parsley or green onions just before serving for a burst of freshness.
  10. Serve with Bread: Crusty bread or cornbread makes an excellent accompaniment to soak up the flavorful broth.
  11. Garnish: Sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese or crispy bacon bits on top for an extra indulgent touch.
  12. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning towards the end of cooking. Sometimes a little extra salt or pepper can make all the difference.

Enjoy your delicious Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham!

Achieving the perfect Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham is all about attention to detail and layering flavors. Here are some secrets to help you nail it:

  1. Prep the Ingredients: Rinse and sort the beans, chop the vegetables, and trim the ham before you start. Having everything ready to go makes the cooking process smoother.
  2. Sear the Ham: For extra flavor, sear the ham in a hot skillet before adding it to the slow cooker. This caramelizes the surface and adds depth to the dish.
  3. Layer Flavors: Start by sautéing onions, garlic, and any other aromatics in the same skillet used for searing the ham. This step builds a solid flavor foundation.
  4. Soak the Beans: Soak the beans overnight or use the quick soak method (cover beans with water, bring to a boil, then let them sit for an hour) to ensure they cook evenly and become tender.
  5. Choose the Right Herbs and Spices: Experiment with different herbs and spices to find your perfect flavor profile. Thyme, rosemary, bay leaves, and smoked paprika are popular choices.
  6. Use High-Quality Stock: Opt for homemade or high-quality store-bought stock instead of water. It elevates the flavor of the dish significantly.
  7. Don’t Overcook: While slow cooking is the name of the game, be cautious not to overcook the beans or they’ll turn mushy. Check them periodically and stop cooking when they’re just tender.
  8. Add Freshness at the End: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or chives towards the end of cooking to brighten up the dish.
  9. Thicken the Broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, mash some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon or blend a portion of the mixture and stir it back in.
  10. Adjust Seasoning: Taste and adjust the seasoning before serving. Sometimes a pinch of salt or a dash of vinegar can bring all the flavors together.
  11. Let it Rest: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together even further.
  12. Garnish Creatively: Sprinkle some freshly cracked black pepper, grated Parmesan cheese, or a drizzle of good quality olive oil on top before serving for an extra touch of elegance.

By following these secrets, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the perfect Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham every time!

Here are some commonly asked questions and their answers related to Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham:

  1. Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
    • Yes, you can use canned beans for convenience, but the texture and flavor may differ slightly from using dried beans. If using canned beans, rinse and drain them before adding them to the slow cooker.
  2. How long should I cook white beans and ham in the slow cooker?
    • Cooking times can vary depending on your slow cooker and the specific recipe, but typically it takes around 6 to 8 hours on low heat or 3 to 4 hours on high heat for the beans to become tender and the flavors to meld together.
  3. Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
    • Soaking the beans overnight or using the quick soak method helps to reduce cooking time and improve digestibility, but it’s not absolutely necessary. You can still cook the beans without soaking, but it may take longer.
  4. What can I use instead of ham?
    • If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the ham altogether or substitute it with smoked paprika, tempeh, or vegan sausage for a similar smoky flavor.
  5. Can I freeze leftover white beans and ham?
    • Yes, white beans and ham freeze well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers or freezer bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
  6. How can I thicken the broth?
    • You can thicken the broth by mashing some of the beans against the side of the slow cooker with a spoon or blending a portion of the mixture and stirring it back in. Alternatively, you can make a slurry with cornstarch or flour and water and stir it into the simmering broth until thickened.
  7. What can I serve with Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham?
    • Slow Cooker White Beans and Ham pairs well with crusty bread, cornbread, or a side of steamed vegetables. You can also serve it over cooked rice or mashed potatoes for a heartier meal.
  8. Can I add other ingredients to the dish?
    • Yes, feel free to customize the recipe to suit your taste. You can add vegetables like carrots, celery, or bell peppers, or experiment with different herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
  9. How should I store leftover white beans and ham?
    • Store leftover white beans and ham in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
  10. Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot instead of a slow cooker?
    • Yes, you can adapt the recipe for the Instant Pot. Follow the same steps, but adjust the cooking time to around 25-30 minutes on high pressure, with a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before releasing any remaining pressure manually.