Ham And Dried Beans
A hearty ham and dried beans stew with tender vegetables and potatoes, perfect for comforting family meals and hearty gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place the ham in a large pot and cover with water.
- Cook until the ham is tender.
- Dice the celery, carrot, and onion.
- Dice the potatoes.
- Add the diced vegetables and potatoes to the pot with the ham.
- Add the soaked dried beans to the pot.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Cook all together until the potatoes and beans are done.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using leftover ham bone or adding a bay leaf during cooking. If you don't have dried string beans, fresh green beans or even canned beans can work in a pinch. Soaking the beans overnight can help them cook faster. Adjust the salt according to your ham's saltiness to avoid an overly salty dish.
Serving Suggestions
This hearty dish pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a fresh green salad, such as Doris' Seven-Layered Salad, for a complete meal. You can also serve it alongside rice for a filling combination. For a casual approach, consider making Sloppy Ham Sandwiches with the leftovers for a delicious next-day meal.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, simply place the beans and ham mixture in a pot over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the mixture is too thick, add a splash of water or broth to loosen it.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham And Dried Beans contains roughly 360 calories, with 8g protein, 67g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (229% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (57% of the Daily Value), and potassium (43% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 544mg per serving (24% 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 beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans to save time. Simply rinse and drain them before adding them to the pot towards the end of cooking, as they only need to be heated through rather than cooked.
What type of ham is best for this recipe?
A smoked or cooked ham is ideal, as it adds depth of flavor to the dish. You can also use a ham hock for an even richer taste and enhanced broth. Just ensure it has some meat for a satisfying meal.
Can I add other vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables like bell peppers, corn, or even greens like spinach for additional nutrition and flavor. Just be mindful of cooking times to ensure everything is tender and well-cooked.
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).