White Beans
A hearty and flavorful white bean stew with salt pork, tomatoes, and aromatic herbs, perfect for comforting dinners and suitable for family and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the Great Northern beans in water overnight.
- Keep 3 cups of the soaking liquid and set aside.
- Add bouillon cubes to the reserved liquid and dissolve.
- Rinse the salt pork, dry, and cut into 1-inch strips.
- Brown the pork strips in oil until crispy.
- Add the soaked beans, chopped onions, chopped garlic, chopped tomatoes, sage, parsley, thyme, bay leaf, and the prepared bouillon liquid to the pot.
- Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 2 to 2 1/2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Optional: cook in a crock-pot on low for several hours.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, you can mash some of the beans once they are tender. If you don’t have salt pork, diced ham or bacon works well as a substitute. To enhance the flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine or a dash of hot sauce. If you prefer a vegetarian version, omit the pork and add additional vegetables or smoked paprika for depth. This dish also makes a great base for a Cold Night Chili.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the white beans warm, garnished with fresh parsley. Pair with crusty bread or cornbread for a hearty meal. For a complete dinner, consider serving alongside a simple green salad or steamed vegetables. This dish also makes a wonderful side for grilled meats or pairs beautifully with Ham-Aghetti Casserole(Microwave).
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the beans. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of White Beans contains roughly 1568 calories, with 17g protein, 86g carbohydrates, and 133g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (193% of the Daily Value), iron (104% of the Daily Value), and potassium (57% of the Daily Value), and a good source of calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 875mg 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 dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, using dried beans is encouraged for this recipe. Just soak them as instructed and adjust the cooking time accordingly. Dried beans offer a fresher taste and better texture, making your dish even more satisfying.
What if I don't have bouillon cubes?
If you don't have bouillon cubes, you can substitute with homemade broth or stock. Just ensure to adjust the salt, as broth can be saltier than bouillon. You may also dissolve a teaspoon of salt in the water for flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. You can also serve it with a side of hot sauce for those who enjoy a spicier kick in their meals.
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).