Butter Beans And Ham
A hearty Southern classic featuring tender butter beans and smoky ham, infused with onions and spices. Perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Half fill a large saucepan with water and stir in the beans, ham hock, the quartered onion, garlic, and bay leaves.
- Bring to a boil, then lower the heat and simmer, uncovered, for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
- Drain the beans, reserving all of the liquid and discarding the onions, garlic, and bay leaves.
- Transfer the beans to a bowl and the ham hock to a cutting board.
- Cut the meat into small pieces.
- Discard the bone.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the cooked beans before serving. If you don't have ham hock, a smoked turkey leg or diced bacon can be excellent substitutes. Adding diced carrots or celery can enhance the flavor profile. To amp up the heat, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or using a spicier hot sauce. This dish also pairs beautifully with Southern Split Pea Soup for a comforting meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the butter beans and ham over cooked rice or alongside cornbread for a hearty meal. Consider pairing with sautéed greens or a simple green salad for a balanced plate. This dish also works well as a side for grilled meats or as a filling main course when topped with additional hot sauce. It's perfect for a family gathering or as a comforting weeknight dinner.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the butter beans and ham in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and then warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if the mixture appears too thick.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Butter Beans And Ham contains roughly 122 calories, with 2g protein, 12g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and iron.
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 frozen or canned?
Yes, you can use dried butter beans; just soak them overnight before cooking. Increase the cooking time to ensure they become tender, as dried beans may take longer than pre-cooked options. Adjust the liquid accordingly to keep the dish moist.
What can I substitute for ham hock if I'm looking for a vegetarian option?
For a vegetarian version, try substituting the ham hock with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to impart a similar flavor. You can also add mushrooms for a savory depth and use vegetable broth as the cooking liquid.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and easily mashed between your fingers. If you bite into a bean and it feels grainy or hard, it needs more cooking time. Regularly check and stir to ensure even cooking.
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).