Are you looking for a delicious and healthy meal that requires minimal effort? Look no further! This navy bean crock pot recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. Imagine coming home to the comforting aroma of tender, flavorful navy beans, ready to be enjoyed. This recipe is not only incredibly easy but also packed with nutrients, making it a fantastic addition to your healthy meal plan. It’s the ultimate in easy recipes and quick dinner ideas, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and picked over
- 8 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Optional: 1/2 cup chopped ham or bacon (for added flavor)
Instructions:
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Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery and sauté until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This step adds depth of flavor to your delicious dish.
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Combine Ingredients: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your slow cooker. Add the rinsed navy beans, water (or broth), thyme, rosemary, bay leaf, salt, and pepper. If using, add the ham or bacon now. Stir everything together gently.
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Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours, or on high for 4-6 hours, or until the beans are tender and easily mashed. Check the liquid level occasionally; add a little more water if needed to prevent the beans from drying out.
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Season and Serve: Once the beans are cooked, remove the bay leaf. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more salt and pepper to your preference. You can leave the beans whole, or mash a portion of them for a thicker, creamier consistency. Serve hot with crusty bread or your favorite side dish.
Tips for the Best Navy Bean Crock Pot Recipe:
- Soaking the beans (optional): Soaking the beans overnight significantly reduces cooking time. Simply cover the beans with water and let them soak in the refrigerator for at least 6-8 hours, or even overnight. Remember to drain and rinse before cooking.
- Adjusting seasonings: Feel free to experiment with different herbs and spices to customize the flavor. Smoked paprika, cumin, or chili powder would all be delicious additions.
- Adding other vegetables: Enhance your healthy meal further by adding other vegetables such as diced potatoes, bell peppers, or zucchini during the last hour of cooking.
Variations:
- Spicy Navy Beans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick.
- Vegetarian Navy Bean Soup: Omit the ham or bacon for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Creamy Navy Bean Soup: Stir in a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt before serving for extra creaminess.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is based on a recipe yielding 6 servings and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 250-300
- Protein: Approximately 15-20g
- Fiber: Approximately 10-15g
This easy recipe is perfect for meal prepping! The leftovers are just as delicious the next day, making this a fantastic choice for busy schedules. Enjoy this hearty and healthy homemade meal! It’s one of the best recipes for effortless deliciousness. This healthy meal fits perfectly into any busy weeknight dinner plan. This is a truly satisfying and simple addition to your repertoire of quick dinner ideas and delicious dishes.