Ooo, cozy vibes again 😄 Ham and beans is pure comfort food. Here’s a classic, hearty version—simple and satisfying.
🫘🍖 Ham and Beans (Classic Comfort Recipe)
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450 g) dry white beans (navy or great northern)
- 1–2 cups cooked ham, diced (or a ham hock for extra flavor)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced (optional but nice)
- 2 celery stalks, chopped (optional)
- 6–8 cups water or chicken broth
- 1 bay leaf
- ½ tsp black pepper
- Salt (add at the end)
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
Instructions
- Soak the beans overnight in plenty of water. Drain and rinse.
- In a large pot, heat oil/butter. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until soft.
- Add garlic, cook 30 seconds.
- Add beans, ham (or ham hock), bay leaf, and broth/water.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce to a gentle simmer.
- Cover and cook 1½–2 hours, stirring occasionally, until beans are tender.
- Remove bay leaf. Taste and add salt as needed.
- If using a ham hock, remove it, shred the meat, and return it to the pot.
Serving Tips
- Serve with cornbread, crusty bread, or over rice
- Add a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of chili flakes for depth
- Even better the next day 🤌
Want a slow cooker or Instant Pot version? Or a Southern-style smoky twist?
