Get ready to transform your kitchen into a haven of mouthwatering aromas with the most soul-warming, hearty recipe that's been passed down through generations! This Flatman Family Beans and Ham Crockpot isn't just a meal - it's a culinary journey that will transport you straight to grandma's kitchen. Imagine tender, slow-cooked beans infused with rich, smoky ham flavor that melts in your mouth, creating a dish so comforting it'll become an instant family favorite. Whether you're looking for a cozy weekend meal or a crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe is about to become your new go-to comfort food sensation!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 6 hrs
Total Time: 6 hrs 15 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 6 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound dried beans (such as navy or pinto)
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 ham hock
- 6 cups water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by sorting through the dried beans to remove any debris or damaged beans. Rinse the beans under cold water and set them aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, add a small amount of oil. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Transfer the sautéed onion and garlic mixture to the crockpot. Add the rinsed beans, ham hock, dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour in the 6 cups of water, ensuring that the beans are fully submerged. If necessary, adjust the water level to cover the beans by about an inch.
- Cover the crockpot with its lid and set it to cook on low for 6 hours. This slow cooking process will allow the flavors to meld and the beans to become tender.
- After 6 hours, check the beans for tenderness. If they are not yet soft, continue to cook for an additional hour or until they reach your desired consistency.
- Once the beans are cooked, carefully remove the ham hock from the crockpot. Allow it to cool slightly, then shred the meat from the bone, discarding any fat or gristle. Return the shredded ham to the pot and stir to combine.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper to taste. Serve the beans hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired, alongside cornbread or crusty bread.
Tips
- Bean Preparation: Always sort and rinse your dried beans before cooking to remove any small stones or damaged beans. This ensures a cleaner, more enjoyable dish.
- Sautéing Secret: Don't skip sautéing the onions and garlic before adding them to the crockpot. This step caramelizes their natural sugars, adding depth and richness to the overall flavor.
- Ham Hock Magic: Choose a meaty ham hock for maximum flavor. The slow cooking will help break down the meat, creating incredibly tender, succulent bites.
- Liquid Level Matters: Ensure beans are always covered by about an inch of water during cooking. Add more hot water if needed to prevent drying out.
- Seasoning Tip: Wait until the end to adjust salt, as ham hocks can be quite salty. Taste and season accordingly just before serving.
- Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so don't hesitate to make it in advance and reheat for an even more developed flavor profile.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 320kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 22g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: g
Cholesterol: 35mg
