When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival the simplicity and heartiness of slow cooker ham and beans. This classic American recipe has been a staple of family gatherings and weeknight meals for generations, and its enduring popularity is a testament to its ease of preparation and rich, satisfying flavor. In this article, we’ll explore the basics of making slow cooker ham and beans, including the ingredients, equipment, and techniques you’ll need to get started.
Understanding the Basics of Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Before we dive into the recipe itself, it’s worth taking a moment to understand the basic components of slow cooker ham and beans. At its core, this dish consists of just a few key ingredients:
- Ham: The star of the show, ham provides the salty, savory flavor that defines slow cooker ham and beans. You can use a variety of ham types, including bone-in hams, ham hocks, or even diced cooked ham.
- Beans: The supporting player, beans add fiber, texture, and a touch of sweetness to balance out the saltiness of the ham. You can use a variety of bean types, including navy beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans.
- Aromatics: Onions, garlic, and other aromatics add depth and complexity to the dish, and help to bring out the natural flavors of the ham and beans.
- Broth: A liquid component, such as chicken or beef broth, helps to keep the dish moist and adds an extra layer of flavor.
Choosing the Right Ham for Your Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
When it comes to selecting a ham for your slow cooker ham and beans, you have a few options to consider. Here are a few popular choices:
- Bone-in ham: A bone-in ham is a great choice for slow cooker ham and beans, as the bone adds flavor and body to the dish. Look for a ham with a thick, meaty layer and a sturdy bone that will hold up to long, slow cooking.
- Ham hocks: Ham hocks are a popular choice for slow cooker ham and beans, as they’re easy to find and add a rich, unctuous flavor to the dish. Look for smoked or cured ham hocks for the best flavor.
- Diced cooked ham: If you’re short on time or prefer a leaner ham, diced cooked ham is a great option. Look for a low-sodium ham to avoid adding too much salt to the dish.
Preparing Your Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Now that we’ve covered the basics, it’s time to start preparing your slow cooker ham and beans. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight and drained
- 1 pound bone-in ham or 2 ham hocks
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken or beef broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
- Add the soaked and drained navy beans, chopped onion, and minced garlic to the slow cooker.
- Add the bone-in ham or ham hocks on top of the beans and aromatics.
- Pour in the chicken or beef broth, making sure that the ham and beans are covered.
- Add the dried thyme and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 4-6 hours.
Tips for Customizing Your Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
While the basic recipe above provides a delicious and satisfying meal, there are plenty of ways to customize your slow cooker ham and beans to suit your tastes. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add some heat: If you like a little spice in your life, consider adding some diced jalapenos or serrano peppers to the slow cooker.
- Get creative with the aromatics: In addition to onions and garlic, you can also add other aromatics like carrots, celery, or bell peppers to the slow cooker.
- Use different types of beans: While navy beans are a classic choice for slow cooker ham and beans, you can also use other types of beans like kidney beans, pinto beans, or even black beans.
Common Mistakes to Avoid When Making Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
While slow cooker ham and beans is a relatively simple recipe, there are a few common mistakes to avoid in order to ensure the best results. Here are a few things to watch out for:
- Not soaking the beans: Failing to soak the beans can result in a dish that’s tough and unappetizing. Make sure to soak the beans overnight and drain them before adding them to the slow cooker.
- Not using enough liquid: Slow cooker ham and beans needs plenty of liquid to cook the beans and keep the dish moist. Make sure to use enough broth or water to cover the ham and beans.
- Overcooking the dish: Slow cooker ham and beans can quickly become mushy and overcooked if it’s cooked for too long. Make sure to check the dish regularly and adjust the cooking time as needed.
Troubleshooting Common Issues with Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Despite your best efforts, things don’t always go as planned when making slow cooker ham and beans. Here are a few common issues you might encounter, along with some troubleshooting tips:
- The beans are too hard: If the beans are too hard, it may be because they weren’t soaked long enough or because the dish didn’t cook for long enough. Try soaking the beans for a longer period of time or cooking the dish for an additional hour or two.
- The dish is too salty: If the dish is too salty, it may be because you used too much ham or added too much salt. Try reducing the amount of ham or salt in the recipe, or adding some acidity like a splash of vinegar to balance out the flavors.
Serving and Storing Slow Cooker Ham and Beans
Once your slow cooker ham and beans is cooked, it’s time to serve and enjoy. Here are a few tips for serving and storing the dish:
- Serve with some crusty bread: Slow cooker ham and beans is a hearty, comforting meal that’s perfect for serving with some crusty bread or cornbread.
- Store leftovers in the fridge or freezer: Slow cooker ham and beans makes a big batch, so you’ll likely have some leftovers. Store them in the fridge for up to a week or freeze for up to 3 months.
Conclusion
Slow cooker ham and beans is a classic American recipe that’s easy to make and packed with flavor. By following the simple recipe above and customizing it to your tastes, you can create a delicious and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any time of the year. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or a weekend warrior, slow cooker ham and beans is a great choice for anyone looking for a hearty, comforting meal.
What is the best type of ham to use for slow cooker ham and beans?
The best type of ham to use for slow cooker ham and beans is a bone-in ham, such as a smoked ham hock or a ham shank. This type of ham is perfect for slow cooking because it is typically less expensive than boneless ham and has a lot of connective tissue that breaks down during cooking, making the meat tender and flavorful.
You can also use a boneless ham, such as a ham steak or diced ham, but keep in mind that it may not be as tender as a bone-in ham. If using a boneless ham, you may need to adjust the cooking time and liquid levels to prevent the meat from drying out.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans instead of dried beans, but keep in mind that the flavor and texture may be slightly different. Canned beans are pre-cooked and may be softer and more prone to breaking apart during cooking. Dried beans, on the other hand, absorb the flavors of the dish and retain their texture better.
If using canned beans, drain and rinse them before adding them to the slow cooker. You can also reduce the cooking time and liquid levels, as canned beans are already cooked. However, keep in mind that using canned beans may result in a slightly less flavorful dish.
How long does it take to cook slow cooker ham and beans?
The cooking time for slow cooker ham and beans can vary depending on the type of beans and ham used, as well as the desired level of tenderness. Generally, it takes 6-8 hours on low or 3-4 hours on high to cook the beans and ham until they are tender.
If using dried beans, it’s best to cook them on low for 8 hours or overnight to allow them to absorb the flavors and become tender. If using canned beans, you can cook the dish on high for 2-3 hours or on low for 4-5 hours.
Can I add other ingredients to the slow cooker ham and beans?
Yes, you can add other ingredients to the slow cooker ham and beans to suit your taste preferences. Some popular additions include diced onions, carrots, celery, and bell peppers. You can also add some tomato paste or diced tomatoes for added flavor.
Other ingredients you can add include garlic, mustard, and spices such as thyme and rosemary. You can also add some acidity, such as a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice, to balance out the flavors.
Can I make slow cooker ham and beans in advance?
Yes, you can make slow cooker ham and beans in advance and refrigerate or freeze it for later use. In fact, the dish often tastes better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together.
To make ahead, cook the dish as instructed, then let it cool completely before refrigerating or freezing it. You can refrigerate it for up to 3 days or freeze it for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw the dish overnight in the refrigerator, then reheat it in the slow cooker or on the stovetop.
Is slow cooker ham and beans a healthy meal option?
Slow cooker ham and beans can be a healthy meal option, depending on the ingredients used. The dish is high in protein, fiber, and vitamins, making it a nutritious choice.
However, the dish can also be high in sodium and saturated fat, depending on the type of ham and beans used. To make a healthier version, use a leaner ham, such as a boneless ham steak, and reduce the amount of salt and sugar added to the dish. You can also add some vegetables, such as carrots and celery, to increase the nutrient content.
Can I serve slow cooker ham and beans as a main dish or side dish?
Slow cooker ham and beans can be served as either a main dish or a side dish, depending on your preferences. As a main dish, it’s a hearty and comforting meal that’s perfect for a cold winter’s night.
As a side dish, it’s a great accompaniment to roasted meats, such as chicken or beef, or as a side dish for a holiday meal. You can also serve it with some crusty bread or cornbread for a filling and satisfying meal.