Beans And Ham Hocks
Hearty and comforting beans cooked with smoky ham hocks, rich flavors perfect for a satisfying meal, especially suited for cold weather or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick through the navy beans to remove bad or split ones, then wash them.
- Put a large cook pot on the stove and add 5 quarts of water.
- Add the washed beans and ham hocks to the pot.
- Cook on medium heat for 3.5 hours, stirring occasionally.
- When the water turns milky or the beans thicken, the dish is ready to serve.
Tips & Substitutions
Soak the navy beans overnight for a quicker cooking time and improved texture. If you don't have ham hocks, smoked sausage or bacon can be a great substitute for flavor. Adjust the seasoning by adding bay leaves or garlic to enhance the dish. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking, similar to what you might do with Basic Red Beans(Crock-Pot).
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans and ham hocks in bowls, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme. This dish pairs beautifully with cornbread or crusty bread for dipping. Consider serving a side salad for freshness or alongside classic American recipes like Quahog Chowder for a hearty meal.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. For longer storage, freeze the beans in portion-sized containers for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of water and warm them on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through, stirring occasionally to maintain consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Beans And Ham Hocks contains roughly 159 calories, with 9g protein, 30g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. It also contributes 12g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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 dried beans instead of canned for this recipe?
Yes, dried navy beans are recommended for this recipe. Be sure to soak them overnight to ensure even cooking and to reduce cooking time. This method will give you a better flavor and texture compared to using canned beans.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of water. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar depth of flavor. Incorporating mushrooms can also enhance the umami taste of the dish.
What can I do if my beans are still hard after cooking?
If the beans are still hard after 3.5 hours, they may need additional cooking time. Check the water level and add more if necessary. Continue to cook on medium heat, checking every 20 minutes until they reach the desired tenderness.
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).