Are you craving a hearty, flavorful, and soul-satisfying meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Then look no further than this recipe for Southern Great Northern Beans! This classic dish is a testament to the magic of simple ingredients transformed into a delicious and healthy meal. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend lunch, these beans are sure to become a staple in your homemade cooking repertoire. Get ready to experience the ultimate in easy recipes and quick dinner ideas!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried Great Northern beans, picked over and rinsed
- 6 cups water
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 2 carrots, chopped
- 2 celery stalks, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 slices bacon, diced (optional, for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for a little heat)
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
Get started:
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed Great Northern beans and 6 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for at least 1 hour, or until the beans are tender but not mushy. Adding a pinch of baking soda to the soaking water can help reduce cooking time and improve texture, but this is optional.
Building flavor:
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While the beans are simmering, prepare the vegetables. In a large skillet, cook the diced bacon (if using) over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving the bacon grease in the skillet.
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Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Combining & Simmering:
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Once the beans are tender, stir in the sautéed vegetables, smoked paprika, thyme, black pepper, cayenne pepper (if using), bay leaf, brown sugar, and apple cider vinegar. Season with salt to taste. If the beans seem too thick, add a little more water.
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Return the pot to a low simmer, cover, and cook for another 30 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. This slow cooking is key to developing that rich, Southern taste.
Finishing touches:
- Remove the bay leaf before serving. Stir in the crispy bacon (if using) and garnish with fresh parsley.
Tips and Variations:
- For a richer flavor, use ham hock or smoked ham bone instead of bacon.
- Feel free to add other vegetables, such as diced bell peppers or corn.
- If you're short on time, you can use canned Great Northern beans. Just drain and rinse them before adding them to the pot with the vegetables in step 4. Reduce the cooking time accordingly.
- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to your preferred level of spiciness.
- Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This recipe provides a healthy dose of fiber and protein, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal. The nutritional content will vary slightly based on the ingredients used and serving size. For a precise nutritional analysis, use an online nutritional calculator.
This Southern Great Northern Beans recipe is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a healthy and comforting meal. It's a perfect example of how simple ingredients can create a truly unforgettable delicious dish. Perfect for meal prepping or a quick weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.