Dried Great Northern Beans
Hearty dried Great Northern beans cooked with ham hock or side pork create a comforting, savory dish rich in flavor, perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick over the beans to remove bad ones and wash them.
- Put the meat and beans in a large pot and cover with water.
- Cook slowly over medium heat for about 2 hours or until the beans are tender.
- Add salt during the last hour of cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
To ensure even cooking, soak the dried Great Northern beans overnight to reduce cooking time. If you don't have a ham hock, try using smoked sausage or bacon for a similar flavor. Adjust the amount of salt based on your meat's saltiness. For extra flavor, consider adding garlic, onion, or bay leaves while cooking. Those interested in more hearty dishes might enjoy browsing other American recipes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the beans hot, garnished with freshly cracked black pepper. They pair beautifully with cornbread or serve as a side to grilled meats. For a complete meal, consider pairing with a salad dressed with Maple Bacon Dressing For Garden Salad, or enjoy as part of a spread with dishes like Hoppin' John.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the beans and warm them on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, adding moisture as needed.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Dried Great Northern Beans contains roughly 32 calories, with 2g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (104% of the Daily Value), and a good source of dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 502mg per serving (22% 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 dried?
Yes, you can use canned Great Northern beans for a quicker meal. Drain and rinse them, then add them to the pot during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb flavors from the ham hock.
Is it necessary to soak the beans?
Soaking beans helps reduce cooking time and can enhance digestibility. However, if you're short on time, you can skip soaking and simply cook the beans for a longer period until tender.
What can I serve with the beans?
These beans are versatile and can be served alongside a variety of dishes. They pair especially well with cornbread, coleslaw, or even as a side to your favorite pork recipes like Hot Ham 'N Cheese. Feel free to experiment with different sides based on your preferences.
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).