Crock Pot Ham Bone and Beans
Many variations to Ham Bone (or Hocks) and beans but this is pretty much how I remember it from my childhood. I find by not soaking the beans they have better texture and flavor. I use Great Northern Beans as my favorite choice of bean for this recipe. I have used 15 bean mix with good results just omit the ham flavor packet.
Many variations to Ham Bone (or Hocks) and beans but this is pretty much how I remember it from my childhood. I find by not soaking the beans they have better texture and flavor. I use Great Northern Beans as my favorite choice of bean for this recipe. I have used 15 bean mix with good results just omit the ham flavor packet.
- Carbohydrate 3.12282281579133 g
- Cholesterol 0 mg
- Fat 0.0592541411946662 g
- Fiber 0.714107399713986 g
- Protein 0.412359175996154 g
- Saturated Fat 0.0158225871326506 g
- Serving Size 1 1 -10 serving(s) (94g)
- Sodium 14.1881908006187 mg
- Sugar 2.40871541607734 g
- Trans Fat 0.0140116506407892 g
- Calories 14 calories
Step-by-step
- Add onion and celery to crock pot.
- Place ham bone or hocks on top of onion and celery.
- Pour rinsed beans around ham and sprinkle with pepper.
- Add bay leaves and garlic.
- Add chicken stock and stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover and cook on low for 8 hours.
- When ham is tender (6-7 hours) Remove meat from bones (discarding fat and bones) and return meat to the pot.
- Stir to combine and break up ham pieces.
- To thicken smash some of the beans on the side of crock pot.
- When done skim any fat off and discard bay leaves.
Comfort Food Classics: My Grandma's Crock Pot Ham Bone and Beans
The aroma of simmering ham bone and beans fills my kitchen, a comforting scent that instantly transports me back to my childhood. Grandma's crock pot always held a magical stew, and this recipe is my attempt to recreate that delicious memory. There's something incredibly satisfying about a hearty, slow-cooked meal, especially one that's bursting with flavor and requires minimal effort. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend, promising a taste of home-style comfort that’s sure to warm your soul. This isn’t just a recipe; it’s a story, a tradition passed down, a warm hug in a bowl.
I remember watching Grandma, her hands gently stirring the bubbling pot, the steam rising to meet the scent of savory ham, sweet beans, and aromatic spices. She always used Great Northern beans, claiming they held their texture better than others, a secret I’ve carried on through the years. She never soaked her beans, either, a detail I initially questioned but now understand. Skipping the soak creates a hearty texture and intensifies the bean's natural flavor. The slow cooking process allows the beans to absorb the rich flavors of the ham bone, garlic, and spices, creating a harmony that's hard to resist. Sometimes, Grandma would add a little shredded carrot for extra sweetness, a touch I often include myself. This isn't just a meal; it's an experience, a journey through memory and the simple pleasures of wholesome cooking.
What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It’s so easy to adapt to your preferences. Feel free to experiment with different types of beans – fifteen-bean mix works wonderfully, although you might want to omit any pre-packaged flavor packets. I have also made modifications based on what was on hand; I once added a diced potato which gave the recipe a little more thickness. The key is slow cooking, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen over time. The result is a tender, flavorful meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly easy to make. It's a recipe that speaks to the heart, a legacy of love and deliciousness, passed down from one generation to the next.
More than just a delicious meal, this crock pot ham bone and bean recipe represents a connection to simpler times, a reminder of the comfort and joy that comes from sharing a meal made with love. It's a recipe that transcends the everyday, turning a simple dinner into a treasured experience.
This dish is perfect for a chilly evening, a comforting meal after a long day, or a hearty addition to a casual gathering. It’s the kind of food that brings people together, sparking conversation and sharing memories. The warmth of the crock pot, the aroma of the slow-cooked goodness, and the satisfaction of a home-cooked meal all contribute to a unique and memorable dining experience. So, gather your ingredients, set your crock pot to low, and let the magic of this recipe work its wonders. You’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create such a deeply satisfying and unforgettable meal.
In fact, this recipe makes an excellent addition to any cold-weather gathering. The rich flavors and slow-cooked tenderness pair beautifully with crusty bread and a simple side salad. It’s a dish that can easily feed a crowd and leave everyone feeling satisfied and nourished. Try adding some cornbread muffins for an extra touch of Southern comfort. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and its ability to transport you back to simpler times, filled with warmth, family, and the delicious aroma of home-cooked goodness.
So, go ahead, try this recipe. Let the comforting flavors of Grandma's crock pot ham bone and beans warm your heart and fill your kitchen with the scent of love and delicious memories. It's more than just a recipe; it's a journey back to simpler times and the wholesome comfort of a truly unforgettable meal. You might even find yourself creating your own memories around this simple yet extraordinary dish.
