Grandpa'S Beans
Grandpa's Beans is a hearty, smoky bean stew with tender ham and rich tomato flavors, perfect for comforting family dinners and those who love slow-cooked, savory dishes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the dry beans thoroughly.
- Place the beans into a 6-quart pressure cooker.
- Add water and cook at low pressure for 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Add canned tomatoes or juice and smoked ham to the beans.
- Return the cooker to heat and cook at low pressure for an additional 1 hour and 15 minutes.
- Adjust salt to taste, depending on the saltiness of the ham.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and improve texture. If you don't have smoked picnic ham, any smoked pork will work, or you could use a vegetarian alternative like liquid smoke for flavor. Adjust the liquid based on the type of beans used, as some absorb more water than others. Always taste before serving, as the saltiness of the ham can vary.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Grandpa's Beans with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. Pair it with a simple green salad to balance the richness of the dish. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving alongside a protein like grilled chicken or a lighter option like Hearty Vegetable Chowder. This dish is versatile and can be enjoyed on its own or as a side.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply warm them on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. They can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just ensure they're in a freezer-safe container and thaw before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandpa'S Beans contains roughly 391 calories, with 21g protein, 70g carbohydrates, and 3g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (73% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (68% of the Daily Value), and protein (42% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 868mg per serving (38% 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 dry beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. If using canned beans, skip the initial pressure cooking step and simply combine all ingredients in the pressure cooker. Cook for about 20-30 minutes at low pressure to allow flavors to meld.
What type of beans work best for this recipe?
Small red, pinto, or navy beans are all excellent choices for this recipe. Each type will impart slightly different flavors and textures, so choose based on personal preference. Pinto beans will give a creamier texture, while small red beans hold their shape better.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, substitute the smoked picnic ham with a plant-based alternative, such as liquid smoke or smoked paprika for flavor. You can also add sautéed mushrooms or a variety of spices to enhance the dish's depth without the meat.
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).