Dried Beans And Ham Hocks
Hearty dried beans cooked with tender ham hocks create a flavorful, comforting dish perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, offering rich smoky and savory notes.
Ingredients
- 4 large ham hocks ⓘ
- 16 oz dried beans (pinto or other variety)
Instructions
- Wash ham hocks and place in a small pressure pot.
- Cover ham hocks with water and cook for 45 minutes.
- Allow the pressure pot to cool naturally before opening.
- Wash dried beans and transfer to the cooking pot.
- Add about 1 1/2 quarts of water to the beans.
- Bring the water to a boil and boil for a few minutes.
- Cover the pot and let the beans stand for approximately 2 hours.
- Drain the soaking water from the beans.
- Add the water from cooking the ham hocks to the beans.
- Cut up the cooked ham hocks and add to the beans.
- Cook the mixture over a slow to moderate burner for 1 to 2 hours until done.
Tips & Substitutions
For enhanced flavor, consider adding aromatics like garlic, onion, or bay leaves when cooking the beans. If you don't have ham hocks, smoked turkey or bacon can be a great substitute. Soaking the beans overnight can also reduce cooking time and improve texture. For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne or diced jalapeños.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans and ham hocks over rice or with cornbread for a hearty meal. Pair with a side of Fried Collard Greens for a delicious Southern-inspired dinner. A dollop of hot sauce can add a nice touch for those who enjoy some heat. This dish is perfect for gatherings and can be easily doubled for larger crowds.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beans and ham hocks can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to prevent sticking. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they are cooled completely before freezing.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Beans And Ham Hocks contains roughly 20 calories, with 2g protein, 4g carbohydrates, and 0g 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 beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the soaking and boiling steps. Simply add them to the pot after cooking the ham hocks, and simmer them together to absorb the flavors.
How can I adjust the recipe for a vegetarian version?
For a vegetarian version, omit the ham hocks and use vegetable broth instead of water when cooking the beans. You can add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for a similar smoky flavor. Include additional vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture and taste.
What types of beans work best for this recipe?
Pinto beans are a classic choice due to their creamy texture, but you can experiment with black beans, navy beans, or even kidney beans. Each type brings a unique flavor profile, so choose according to your preference or what you have on hand.
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).