Barbara'S Soup Beans(Crock-Pot)
Hearty and flavorful, Barbara's Soup Beans with ham chunks offers a comforting blend of tender beans and smoky meat, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Sort the dry pinto beans in a bowl and rinse them thoroughly.
- Put the rinsed beans in a large pan and cover with water.
- Bring the water to a rapid boil and cook the beans for 10 to 15 minutes to help swell them.
- Drain the beans and rinse again.
- Transfer the beans to a crock-pot and add the country ham chunks.
- Add a little salt to taste.
- Cover with water ensuring the ingredients are submerged.
- Cook on high for 8 to 10 hours until beans are tender and flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, soak the dry pinto beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance texture. If you don't have country ham, you can substitute with smoked bacon or a ham hock for a similar flavor. Adjust the salt level according to the saltiness of the ham used. This dish can also be enriched with spices like cumin or smoked paprika for an extra kick.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Barbara's Soup Beans with cornbread or over rice for a hearty meal. It pairs beautifully with Pork Chops With Peaches for a delightful combination of flavors. A side of pickled vegetables can also complement the richness of the soup. Top with fresh herbs for an added burst of freshness.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply transfer the beans to a pot and warm over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. You can also reheat in the microwave, covered, in short intervals until hot.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbara'S Soup Beans(Crock-Pot) contains roughly 52 calories, with 2g protein, 11g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (35% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 763mg per serving (33% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned pinto beans for a quicker option. Just skip the soaking and boiling steps, and add the drained beans directly to the crock-pot with the ham. Reduce the cooking time to about 4-6 hours on high, or until heated through.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Consider adding diced onions, garlic, or bell peppers to the crock-pot for extra flavor. You might also experiment with spices like cayenne pepper or thyme to suit your taste. For a heartier version, mix in some chopped vegetables like carrots or celery.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, Barbara's Soup Beans are naturally gluten-free as it contains only beans, ham, water, and salt. Always check the labels on any packaged ingredients to ensure they meet your dietary needs. This dish is great for gluten-free diets and is a comforting, filling option.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).