Cooking a ham bone with beans is a classic dish that has been enjoyed for generations. It’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. In this article, we’ll explore the different ways to cook a ham bone with beans, including the various types of beans and ham bones you can use, as well as some delicious recipes to try.
Choosing the Right Ham Bone
When it comes to cooking a ham bone with beans, the type of ham bone you use can make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are a few options to consider:
Smoked Ham Bone
A smoked ham bone is a great choice for cooking with beans. The smoky flavor of the ham pairs perfectly with the rich, earthy flavor of the beans. You can find smoked ham bones at most butcher shops or grocery stores.
Cured Ham Bone
A cured ham bone is another popular option for cooking with beans. Cured ham bones are typically made from pork hams that have been cured with salt and other ingredients. They have a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with beans.
Fresh Ham Bone
If you can’t find a smoked or cured ham bone, you can also use a fresh ham bone. Fresh ham bones are typically made from pork hams that have not been cured or smoked. They have a milder flavor than smoked or cured ham bones, but still pair well with beans.
Choosing the Right Beans
When it comes to cooking a ham bone with beans, the type of beans you use can also make a big difference in the flavor and texture of the dish. Here are a few options to consider:
Navy Beans
Navy beans are a popular choice for cooking with ham bones. They have a mild, slightly sweet flavor and a soft, creamy texture. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Pinto Beans
Pinto beans are another popular choice for cooking with ham bones. They have a slightly sweeter flavor than navy beans and a firmer texture. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Kidney Beans
Kidney beans are a great choice for cooking with ham bones. They have a slightly sweet flavor and a firm texture. They’re also relatively inexpensive and easy to find.
Cooking a Ham Bone with Beans
Now that we’ve discussed the different types of ham bones and beans you can use, let’s talk about how to cook them. Here’s a basic recipe for cooking a ham bone with beans:
Ingredients
- 1 ham bone (smoked, cured, or fresh)
- 1 cup dried beans (navy, pinto, or kidney)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, chopped
- 1 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 cups chicken broth
Instructions
- Rinse the dried beans and pick out any debris or stones.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the chopped onion, minced garlic, chopped carrot, and chopped celery. Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
- Add the ham bone to the pot and cook for 1-2 minutes, until it’s lightly browned.
- Add the dried beans, diced tomatoes, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper to the pot. Stir to combine.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham bone from the pot and let it cool. Once it’s cool enough to handle, remove the meat from the bone and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Return the chopped ham to the pot and simmer for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together.
Variations on the Recipe
While the basic recipe for cooking a ham bone with beans is delicious on its own, there are many ways to vary it to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas:
Adding Other Vegetables
You can add other vegetables to the pot to make the dish more flavorful and nutritious. Some options include:
- Diced bell peppers
- Sliced mushrooms
- Chopped zucchini
- Diced potatoes
Using Different Spices
You can also experiment with different spices to give the dish a unique flavor. Some options include:
- Paprika
- Cumin
- Coriander
- Cayenne pepper
Adding a Little Smokiness
If you want to add a little smokiness to the dish, you can add some liquid smoke to the pot. This will give the beans a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with the ham.
Serving Suggestions
Cooking a ham bone with beans is a hearty and delicious meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. Here are a few serving suggestions:
Serve with Cornbread
Cornbread is a classic pairing for beans and ham. Simply slice the cornbread and serve it on the side.
Serve with Crackers
If you don’t have cornbread, you can also serve the beans and ham with crackers. Simply place the crackers on the side and let everyone serve themselves.
Serve with a Side Salad
If you want to add a little freshness to the meal, you can serve the beans and ham with a side salad. Simply combine some mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing for a delicious and healthy side dish.
Conclusion
Cooking a ham bone with beans is a delicious and hearty meal that’s perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion. With so many different types of ham bones and beans to choose from, you can experiment with different recipes and flavor combinations to find the one that you like best. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, cooking a ham bone with beans is a great way to create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
What is the best type of ham bone to use for cooking with beans?
The best type of ham bone to use for cooking with beans is a smoked or cured ham bone. This type of bone has a rich, savory flavor that pairs well with the beans. You can use either a bone from a spiral-cut ham or a bone from a bone-in ham. If you can’t find a smoked or cured ham bone, you can also use a raw ham bone, but you’ll need to add some extra seasonings to give it flavor.
When selecting a ham bone, look for one that is meaty and has a good amount of marrow. This will add flavor and richness to your beans. You can also use a ham hock, which is a smaller, more compact version of a ham bone. Ham hocks are often used in traditional bean recipes and are a great option if you can’t find a larger ham bone.
What type of beans are best for cooking with a ham bone?
The type of beans you use will depend on your personal preference, but some popular options include navy beans, kidney beans, and pinto beans. Navy beans are a classic choice for cooking with a ham bone, as they have a mild flavor and a creamy texture. Kidney beans are also a popular choice, as they have a slightly sweeter flavor and a firmer texture. Pinto beans are another option, as they have a mild flavor and a soft texture.
Regardless of the type of beans you choose, make sure to soak them overnight before cooking to reduce cooking time and make them easier to digest. You can also use canned beans if you prefer, but cooking dried beans with a ham bone is a more traditional and flavorful option.
How long does it take to cook a ham bone with beans?
The cooking time for a ham bone with beans will depend on the type of beans you use and the method of cooking. If you’re using dried beans, you can expect to cook them for at least 6-8 hours, either on the stovetop or in a slow cooker. If you’re using canned beans, the cooking time will be significantly shorter, typically around 30 minutes to an hour.
It’s also important to note that the ham bone will need to be cooked for at least 2-3 hours to extract all the flavor and collagen from the bone. You can cook the ham bone separately from the beans and then add it to the pot with the beans for the last hour of cooking. This will help to distribute the flavor evenly and create a rich, savory broth.
Can I cook a ham bone with beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook a ham bone with beans in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook a ham bone with beans, as it allows for low and slow cooking that extracts all the flavor from the bone. Simply place the ham bone, beans, and any desired aromatics or seasonings in the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours.
Using a slow cooker is also convenient, as it allows you to cook the ham bone and beans while you’re busy with other tasks. Just be sure to check the beans periodically to ensure they’re not overcooking, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
How do I store leftover ham bone and beans?
Leftover ham bone and beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. If you’re storing the leftovers in the refrigerator, make sure to cool them to room temperature first and then refrigerate them in a covered container. If you’re freezing the leftovers, you can place them in a freezer-safe container or bag and label them with the date.
When reheating leftover ham bone and beans, make sure to heat them to an internal temperature of at least 165°F to ensure food safety. You can reheat them on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the microwave.
Can I add other ingredients to my ham bone and beans?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to your ham bone and beans to give them extra flavor and nutrition. Some popular additions include diced vegetables, such as carrots and celery, and aromatics, such as onions and garlic. You can also add a can of diced tomatoes or a splash of vinegar to give the beans a tangy flavor.
Other ingredients you might consider adding include a ham steak or diced ham, which can add extra protein and flavor to the dish. You can also add some heat with a diced jalapeno pepper or some red pepper flakes. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning and spices accordingly to balance out the flavors.
Is cooking a ham bone with beans a healthy option?
Cooking a ham bone with beans can be a healthy option, depending on the ingredients and cooking methods used. Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and nutrients, and when cooked with a ham bone, they can be a nutritious and filling meal. However, if you’re using a lot of salt or added sugars in your recipe, it can increase the sodium and calorie content of the dish.
To make cooking a ham bone with beans a healthier option, try using low-sodium broth or stock, and limit the amount of added salt and sugar. You can also add some extra vegetables or spices to increase the nutrient content of the dish. Additionally, using a leaner ham bone or a bone from a nitrate-free ham can also make the dish healthier.