Ham & White Beans:
Ingredients:
1 lb package dried northern beans, rinsed and sorted
1 ham bone, hocks, shanks, or 1 lb diced ham
2 tsp onion powder
1 medium onion, finely chopped (optional for more flavor)
3 cloves garlic, minced (optional)
6-8 cups water or chicken broth
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional garnish: chopped parsley or green onion
Instructions:
1. Soak the Beans (Optional): For quicker cooking, soak the beans overnight in water, then drain and rinse them.
2. Prepare the Soup Base: In a large pot or Dutch oven, add the soaked beans, ham (or ham bone), and water or chicken broth. If you’re using a ham bone, this will add more flavor to the broth.
3. Add Seasonings: Stir in onion powder. For additional flavor, add the chopped onion and minced garlic, if desired.
4. Cook: Bring everything to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours or until the beans are tender and the ham flavors have infused into the broth. Stir occasionally, adding more water if needed.
5. Finish: Remove the ham bone or hocks. Shred any meat left on the bone and add it back to the pot. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve: Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley or green onion if desired. Enjoy with cornbread or crusty bread!
This hearty dish is perfect for cooler days and is even better the next day once
the flavors have melded together. Enjoy!
