Ham Hodgepodge
A hearty, comforting ham and vegetable stew featuring cabbage, carrots, potatoes, and beans, perfect for family dinners and packed with savory flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a large saucepan or Dutch oven, combine cabbage, carrots, potatoes, ham, onion, water, salt, seasoning salt, and pepper.
- Cover and simmer for about 1 hour or until vegetables are tender.
- Add the undrained garbanzo beans and cook covered for an additional 10 to 15 minutes.
- Add more water if necessary during cooking.
Tips & Substitutions
For a heartier version, consider adding diced bell peppers or frozen peas to the mix. If you don't have garbanzo beans, white beans or kidney beans are great substitutes. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste; a splash of hot sauce can add a nice kick. For a smoky flavor, try using smoked ham instead of regular cooked ham.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this Ham Hodgepodge with crusty bread or cornbread for a satisfying meal. A side salad with fresh greens can provide a refreshing contrast. For a fun twist, pair it with Chili Max for an exciting flavor combination. This dish also works well as a filling for tortillas or as a topping for baked potatoes.
Storage & Reheating
To store leftovers, allow the hodgepodge to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be refrigerated for up to 3 days. For reheating, warm it on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. Alternatively, microwave in a covered dish in short intervals, stirring occasionally.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Ham Hodgepodge contains roughly 767 calories, with 14g protein, 101g carbohydrates, and 35g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (66% of the Daily Value), potassium (44% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (37% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1658mg per serving (72% 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 fresh beans instead of canned garbanzo beans?
Yes, you can use fresh beans, but you'll need to soak and cook them beforehand to ensure they're tender. Canned beans are convenient and save time, but if you prefer fresh, make sure they are fully cooked before adding them in the last step of the recipe.
What can I do if my hodgepodge is too thick?
If your hodgepodge turns out too thick, simply add a little more water or broth to reach your desired consistency. Stir well and allow it to simmer for a few more minutes to blend the flavors. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed to ensure it remains flavorful.
Is this recipe suitable for freezing?
Yes, Ham Hodgepodge freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and warm it on the stovetop, adding a bit of water if necessary to loosen it up.
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).