Ham and beans is a classic comfort food dish that has been a staple in many households for generations. It’s a simple, yet flavorful meal that can be cooked in a variety of ways, including on the stovetop. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how to cook ham and beans on the stove, including the ingredients and equipment you’ll need, as well as some tips and tricks for achieving the perfect dish.
Ingredients and Equipment
Before we dive into the cooking process, let’s take a look at the ingredients and equipment you’ll need to make ham and beans on the stovetop.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound smoked ham hocks or shanks
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
Equipment:
- Large pot or Dutch oven with a lid
- Colander or strainer
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
Cooking the Ham and Beans
Now that we have our ingredients and equipment, let’s move on to the cooking process.
Step 1: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat a couple of tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until it’s translucent and starting to caramelize. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
Step 2: Add the Ham Hocks and Spices
Add the smoked ham hocks or shanks to the pot, along with the thyme, rosemary, and bay leaf. Stir to combine and cook for a minute or two, until the ham is coated in the spices.
Step 3: Add the Beans and Broth
Add the soaked and drained navy beans to the pot, along with the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a boil.
Step 4: Simmer the Ham and Beans
Reduce the heat to low and simmer the ham and beans for 1-2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the liquid has thickened into a rich, saucy consistency. You can help the process along by mashing some of the beans against the side of the pot to release their starches.
Step 5: Add the Brown Sugar and Finish the Dish
About 10-15 minutes before serving, add the brown sugar to the pot and stir to combine. This will help balance out the flavors and add a touch of sweetness to the dish.
Tips and Tricks for Achieving the Perfect Ham and Beans
Here are a few tips and tricks to help you achieve the perfect ham and beans on the stovetop:
Use High-Quality Ingredients
The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor and texture of your ham and beans. Look for high-quality smoked ham hocks or shanks, and use fresh, aromatic spices.
Don’t Overcook the Beans
It’s easy to overcook the beans, especially if you’re using older or lower-quality beans. Keep an eye on the beans as they cook and adjust the heat as needed to prevent them from becoming mushy or unappetizing.
Use a Variety of Spices
While thyme and rosemary are classic spices for ham and beans, don’t be afraid to experiment with other spices and herbs to add depth and complexity to the dish.
Let the Dish Rest
Before serving, let the ham and beans rest for 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together and the liquid to thicken.
Conclusion
Cooking ham and beans on the stovetop is a simple and rewarding process that requires just a few ingredients and some basic equipment. By following the steps outlined in this article and using a few tips and tricks, you can create a delicious and comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, ham and beans is a great dish to add to your repertoire.
What type of ham is best for cooking ham and beans?
The type of ham best suited for cooking ham and beans is often a matter of personal preference. However, a smoked or cured ham is typically recommended, as it adds a rich and savory flavor to the dish. You can use either a bone-in or boneless ham, but a bone-in ham will generally provide more flavor to the beans.
When selecting a ham, look for one that is labeled as “smoked” or “cured.” You can also use a ham hock or a ham steak if you prefer. Avoid using a fresh ham, as it will not have the same level of flavor as a smoked or cured ham. Additionally, you can use leftover ham if you have some on hand, which is a great way to repurpose a previous meal.
What type of beans are best for cooking ham and beans?
The type of beans best suited for cooking ham and beans is typically a matter of personal preference. However, navy beans, pinto beans, or Great Northern beans are popular choices. These types of beans hold their shape well and have a mild flavor that pairs well with the smoky flavor of the ham.
When selecting beans, look for ones that are labeled as “dried” or “uncooked.” Avoid using canned beans, as they will be too soft and may become mushy during cooking. You can also use other types of beans, such as kidney beans or black beans, but they may change the flavor and texture of the dish slightly.
How long does it take to cook ham and beans on the stove?
The cooking time for ham and beans on the stove will depend on the type of beans you use and the method of cooking. Generally, it can take anywhere from 30 minutes to several hours to cook ham and beans. If you use a pressure cooker, the cooking time can be significantly reduced to around 30-40 minutes.
If you are cooking the ham and beans on the stovetop without a pressure cooker, you can expect the cooking time to be around 1-2 hours. This will depend on the type of beans you use and the level of doneness you prefer. It’s always a good idea to check the beans periodically to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
Do I need to soak the beans before cooking?
Soaking the beans before cooking is not strictly necessary, but it can help to reduce the cooking time and make the beans easier to digest. If you choose to soak the beans, you can soak them overnight or for at least 8 hours. This will help to rehydrate the beans and reduce the cooking time.
If you don’t have time to soak the beans, you can still cook them without soaking. However, you may need to add more water to the pot and adjust the cooking time accordingly. It’s also a good idea to check the beans periodically to ensure they are cooked to your liking.
Can I add other ingredients to the ham and beans?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the ham and beans to suit your taste preferences. Some popular additions include onions, garlic, carrots, and celery. You can also add a variety of spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves, to give the dish more flavor.
When adding other ingredients, be sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly. For example, if you add carrots or celery, you may need to add more water to the pot and adjust the cooking time to ensure the vegetables are tender. You can also add other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes or bell peppers, to give the dish more flavor and nutrients.
How do I store leftover ham and beans?
Leftover ham and beans can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When storing leftovers, be sure to cool the ham and beans to room temperature before refrigerating or freezing. This will help to prevent bacterial growth and keep the dish fresh.
When reheating leftover ham and beans, be sure to heat them to an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C) to ensure food safety. You can reheat the leftovers on the stovetop, in the oven, or in the microwave. If you are reheating frozen leftovers, be sure to thaw them first before reheating.
Can I make ham and beans in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can make ham and beans in a slow cooker. In fact, a slow cooker is a great way to cook ham and beans, as it allows the flavors to meld together and the beans to cook slowly. To make ham and beans in a slow cooker, simply brown the ham and cook the vegetables in a pan, then transfer everything to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
When making ham and beans in a slow cooker, be sure to adjust the amount of liquid accordingly. You may need to add more water or broth to the slow cooker to ensure the beans are cooked to your liking. You can also add other ingredients, such as diced tomatoes or bell peppers, to give the dish more flavor and nutrients.