Good Luck Beans
A hearty, flavorful bean stew combining mixed beans, ham, and aromatic seasonings, perfect for comforting gatherings or family dinners with a touch of Southern flair.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix 1 pound of each type of bean and rinse 1 1/2 cups of the mixed beans.
- Soak the beans overnight in water.
- Drain the soaked beans and add 2 quarts of water along with at least 1 teaspoon of salt.
- Add ham pieces to the pot.
- Cook slowly for 3 hours.
- Add chopped onion, minced garlic, Ro-Tel tomatoes or plain tomatoes, and lemon juice.
- Simmer the mixture for an additional 2 hours.
- Serve hot, ideally with cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For the best flavor, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic before adding them to the pot. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead. You can also experiment with different beans or spices. Adding a bay leaf during cooking can enhance the flavor. Ensure to soak the beans properly to achieve the desired tenderness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Good Luck Beans hot, ideally accompanied by cornbread for a comforting meal. This dish pairs well with coleslaw or a simple green salad for added freshness. It can also be served as a side alongside other hearty dishes like Hoppin' John(A Traditional New Years Special) for a festive touch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the beans from drying out during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Good Luck Beans contains roughly 308 calories, with 8g protein, 54g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (37% of the Daily Value) and vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and potassium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1258mg per serving (55% 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 beans to save time. If using canned, rinse and drain them, then add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to heat through and absorb flavors without becoming mushy.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Consider adding spices like cumin, smoked paprika, or a dash of hot sauce for a kick. You can also incorporate diced bell peppers or celery with the onions for added depth. Fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can brighten the dish before serving.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Good Luck Beans store well and actually taste better the next day as the flavors meld. Just portion them into individual containers for easy reheating throughout the week, making it a perfect meal prep option.
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).