Slow Cooker White Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks
User Reviews
4.6
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
8 hrs
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Total Time
8 hrs 20 mins
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Servings
12 servings
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Calories
319 kcal
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Course
Main Course
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Cuisine
American
Slow Cooker White Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks
Description
Slow Cooker White Beans with Smoked Ham Hocks is a filling bean stew that combines dried great northern beans, smoked ham hocks, and a mix of vegetables including onions, carrots, celery, and garlic. The ingredients are first sautéed to soften the vegetables and develop flavor, then transferred with chicken stock and seasonings to a slow cooker for a lengthy simmer. The ham hocks impart a distinct smokiness and meaty depth as the beans become tender.
The cooking method ensures tender beans that absorb the smoky broth, creating a savory and thick texture. Toward the end, the meat is removed from the bones and returned, blending throughout the dish and enhancing its richness. Final garnishes of diced fresh tomatoes, red onion, and chives provide brightness and a fresh crunch.
This dish works well as a standalone hearty meal or with a side of crusty bread. The slow cooker convenience also makes it practical for set-it-and-forget-it cooking. Leftovers can be refrigerated for a few days and gently reheated to preserve the tender beans and smoky flavor.
Ingredients
- 2 onion diced, medium
- 2 carrot diced, large
- 4 ribs celery
- 6 garlic cloves
- 1 teaspoon thyme or 1 tblsp. fresh, dried leaves
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 ham hocks large, meaty, smoked
- 1 pound great northern beans dried
- 6 ½ cups chicken stock
- 2 teaspoons salt
- Optional Garnishes: diced fresh tomato, diced red onion, snipped chives
Instructions
- Cut the onion into medium (1/2-inch) dice. Peel the carrots and cut them and the celery into approximately 1/2-inch pieces. Coarsely chop the garlic.
- Place a skillet over medium high heat. Add the olive oil, swirling it to coat the pan. Add the onions, carrots, celery, garlic, and thyme.
- Cook, stirring frequently, for about 10 minutes or until the onions begin to appear translucent.
- Place the vegetables along with the ham hocks, beans, and chicken stock in a large (6-quart or larger) slow cooker.
- Cook on low for 8 hours.
- About 1 hour before the cooking time is complete, remove the ham hocks from the slow cooker and let them cool until they can be handled. Remove and discard the bones, fat, and skin from the ham hocks. Chop or shred the meat and return it to the slow cooker with the beans.
- Add the salt and continue cooking until the beans are completely tender.
- Garnish individual servings with diced fresh tomato, diced red onion, and/or snipped chives.
Notes
- If you lack ham hocks, substitute chopped leftover ham or smoked turkey wings for similar flavors.
- Store leftovers tightly covered in the refrigerator for 2 to 3 days and reheat gently on the stovetop or microwave.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 12servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 319 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 | |
| Calories | 319kcal | 16% |
| Carbohydrates | 32g | 11% |
| Protein | 21g | 42% |
| Fat | 12g | 18% |
| Saturated Fat | 4g | 20% |
| Cholesterol | 40mg | 13% |
| Sodium | 679mg | 28% |
| Potassium | 881mg | 19% |
| Fiber | 9g | 36% |
| Sugar | 4g | 8% |
| Vitamin A | 1758IU | 35% |
| Vitamin C | 5mg | 6% |
| Calcium | 94mg | 9% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.6
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