Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's also incredibly easy to make? Look no further! This crock pot ham and beans recipe is the perfect solution for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend afternoons. It's a delicious, healthy, and satisfying dish that's sure to become a family favorite. Forget complicated recipes; this one is simple, requiring minimal prep time, and delivers maximum flavor. Get ready to experience the ultimate in homemade cooking comfort!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless ham, cut into 1-inch cubes (leftover ham works perfectly!)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (15-ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 (15-ounce) can kidney beans, rinsed and drained
- 1 (15-ounce) can pinto beans, rinsed and drained
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup brown sugar
- 2 tbsp molasses
- 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp dried rosemary
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
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Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrots, and celery and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. This simple step adds depth of flavor to your ham and beans.
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Combine Ingredients in Crock Pot: Transfer the sautéed vegetables to your crock pot. Add the cubed ham, diced tomatoes, kidney beans, pinto beans, chicken broth, brown sugar, molasses, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, black pepper, and salt. Stir well to combine all the ingredients ensuring everything is evenly distributed.
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Cook on Low: Cover the crock pot and cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the ham is tender and the beans are cooked through. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will meld together, creating a richer taste.
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Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, pepper, or a touch of brown sugar depending on your preference.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve your delicious crock pot ham and beans hot, perhaps with a side of crusty bread or cornbread for a truly satisfying meal.
Tips for the Best Ham and Beans:
- Bone-in Ham: For an even richer flavor, consider using a bone-in ham. The bone adds a depth of flavor that's hard to replicate.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for a little kick.
- Smoked Paprika: Enhance the smoky flavor by adding a teaspoon of smoked paprika along with the other spices.
- Slow Cooker Size: Adjust cooking times depending on the size of your slow cooker. Larger slow cookers may require slightly longer cooking times.
Variations:
- Vegetarian Ham and Beans: Substitute the ham with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, butternut squash, or sweet potatoes for a vegetarian-friendly version.
- Spicy Ham and Beans: Add a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 20-25g
- Fat: 10-15g
- Carbohydrates: 40-50g
This delicious and easy crock pot ham and beans recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend. It’s a healthy and satisfying meal that's sure to please everyone. This recipe provides quick dinner ideas and is among the best recipes for effortless homemade cooking. Enjoy!