Carl'S Beans
Hearty and flavorful Southern-style beans simmered with ham hocks and cubed ham, perfect for comforting dinners with cornbread, fried taters, and fresh onions.
Ingredients
- 3 lb. brown beans ⓘ
- 1 small pkg. cubed ham (about 1 lb.)
- 1 small pkg. ham hocks
Instructions
- Start the night before you cook the beans. Clean beans thoroughly, removing all rocks and dirt.
- Soak the cleaned beans overnight in water.
- In the morning, drain the beans and place them in a large enough pan with the soaking water.
- Put the pan on the stove and light the fire. Add ham hocks and cubed ham.
- Cook the beans all day, stirring occasionally and adding water as needed. Alternatively, cook in an electric roaster.
- Serve the beans with your favorite cornbread, fried taters, onions, and enjoy!
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use dried brown beans rather than canned for a fresher texture. If you don't have ham hocks, you can substitute with smoked turkey wings for a similar flavor. Adjust seasoning as desired; a bay leaf can enhance the taste. Remember to stir occasionally to prevent sticking. This dish is a great addition to any American recipes collection.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Carl's Beans alongside cornbread, fried potatoes, or sautéed onions for a hearty meal. A fresh salad or coleslaw can add a refreshing contrast. This dish pairs beautifully with the Hamburger Dinner Casserole for a comforting family feast. Consider offering hot sauce for those who enjoy a bit of heat.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture, or microwave in short intervals until heated through. You can also freeze leftovers for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Carl'S Beans contains roughly 36 calories, with 2g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 3g fat.
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 dried?
While you can use canned beans in a pinch, they won't have the same texture or depth of flavor. If you're short on time, drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot later in the cooking process to heat through, avoiding overcooking.
How do I know when the beans are done cooking?
The beans are done when they are tender and easily mashed with a fork. This can take anywhere from 6 to 8 hours on low heat. Taste a few beans to ensure they’re cooked to your liking before serving.
Can I add other ingredients to the beans?
Absolutely! Feel free to add diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or spices like cayenne for extra flavor. You can also incorporate greens like spinach or kale for added nutrition. Just adjust cooking times accordingly for any new ingredients.
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).