Mammaw'S Ham And Beans
Hearty ham and beans simmered to perfection, rich with smoky flavor and tender pinto beans, ideal for comforting family meals or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Rinse the pinto beans thoroughly.
- Remove any stones or old beans from the mixture.
- Soak the beans in water overnight in the refrigerator.
- Drain the soaked beans and add the leftover ham bone.
- Cover with water and simmer on the stove top for 8 hours or cook in a slow cooker on low for 15 to 18 hours.
- Serve hot over cornbread.
Tips & Substitutions
For optimal flavor, use a ham bone with plenty of meat left on it; this enhances the richness of the dish. If you don't have pinto beans, you can substitute with navy beans or black beans, though cooking times may vary. Remember to soak the beans overnight, as this helps in achieving a tender texture. For added flavor, consider adding diced onions or garlic during cooking.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this hearty dish hot over cornbread for a comforting meal. It pairs wonderfully with a side salad or steamed vegetables for balance. You can also serve it alongside 'Linda'S' Barbecue Sauerkraut for a tangy contrast, making it a satisfying meal ideal for gatherings or family dinners.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed to maintain moisture. You can also microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Mammaw'S Ham And Beans contains roughly 2 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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 dried beans instead of soaked beans?
It's best to soak the beans overnight to reduce cooking time and enhance digestibility. If you're short on time, you can use the quick soak method: boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for 1 hour before cooking. However, fully soaked beans yield the best texture.
What can I do with leftover ham if I don't have a bone?
If you lack a ham bone, you can use diced leftover ham instead. Add it to the beans during the last few hours of cooking to infuse flavor. Just be careful with the salt, as ham can be salty; you may want to reduce any added salt in the recipe.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To create a vegetarian version, simply omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water for cooking the beans. You can also enhance the dish with smoked paprika or liquid smoke to mimic the depth of flavor provided by the ham.
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).