W. V. Coal Miners Strawberries
W. V. Coal Miners Strawberries is a hearty and flavorful bean dish featuring tender pinto beans cooked with ham hocks, infused with rich savory flavors. Perfect for comforting family dinners or gatherings, it offers a smoky and satisfying experience with simple ingredients and traditional techniques.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash the pinto beans and place them in a large pot.
- Add water, ham hocks, and bring to a boil.
- Cook the beans and ham hocks until they are half done.
- Add lard and salt to the pot.
- Reduce heat to low and continue cooking until the beans are tender and fully cooked.
Tips & Substitutions
For best flavor, soak the pinto beans overnight to reduce cooking time. If you don't have lard, you can substitute with bacon fat or vegetable oil. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust the salt to your taste as the ham hock can already be salty. This dish pairs beautifully with Grandma'S Best Beans Ever.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the pinto beans as a hearty main dish or as a flavorful side. They pair wonderfully with cornbread or over rice for a comforting meal. Garnish with fresh cilantro or chopped green onions for added freshness. For a complete meal, consider serving alongside Oven Easy Pork Chops or a simple salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of W. V. Coal Miners Strawberries contains roughly 151 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 17g 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 canned beans?
Yes, using dried beans is recommended for this recipe as they will absorb the flavors of the ham hock and seasonings better. Just be sure to soak them overnight and adjust the cooking time accordingly, as dried beans typically take longer to become tender.
What can I substitute for the ham hock?
If you don't have a ham hock, you can use smoked turkey leg or bacon for a similar smoky flavor. Alternatively, for a vegetarian option, try adding smoked paprika and liquid smoke to give depth to the dish without meat.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the ham hock and lard. Instead, use vegetable broth for cooking the beans and add smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. You can also include diced vegetables like carrots and celery for added texture and taste.
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).