ham and pinto beans recipe

Written BySheba G Updated On
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The Best ham and pinto beans recipe

I’ve been making this ham and pinto beans recipe for my family for years, and it’s always a hit. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. I love that it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning you can cook everything in one pot and let the flavors meld together.

The key to this recipe is to use high-quality ingredients, especially the ham. I like to use a good-quality smoked ham that’s not too salty, as it adds depth of flavor to the dish. Pinto beans are also a great choice because they hold their shape well and have a slightly sweet flavor.

This recipe is also very versatile, so feel free to adjust the ingredients to suit your taste preferences. For example, you can add some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor. One thing that sets this recipe apart from other bean dishes is the use of bacon drippings instead of oil.

This gives the dish a rich, smoky flavor that’s hard to resist. Another great thing about this recipe is that it’s easy to make ahead of time and refrigerate or freeze for later use. I like to make a big batch of it on the weekend and then reheat it throughout the week for an easy meal.

This recipe is also great for large gatherings or potlucks because it makes a lot of food and can be easily scaled up or down depending on the number of guests.

Ham and Pinto Beans Stew

Ham and Pinto Beans Stew

4.8 from 1485 votes

This hearty and comforting dish combines tender ham, creamy pinto beans, and a blend of aromatic vegetables. It’s a perfect meal for a cold day and can be served with crusty bread or cornbread.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Stew

2 cups dried pinto beans
1 lb ham bone with meat
1 large onion, diced
1 large bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups diced tomatoes
2 cups chicken broth
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp paprika
1 tsp cumin

👨‍🍳Directions

1Rinse the pinto beans and pick out any debris or small stones.
2Place them in a large pot and cover with water.
3Bring to a boil over high heat.
4Reduce heat to medium and let the beans simmer until they are tender, about 20 minutes.
5The beans will look plump and soft, and you should be able to easily mash a few with a spoon.
6Drain the beans and set aside.
7In the same pot, add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic.
8Cook over medium heat until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
9Stir frequently to prevent burning.
10Add the diced tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, black pepper, paprika, and cumin.
11Stir well to combine and bring to a simmer.
12Add the cooked pinto beans and ham bone to the pot.
13Stir well to combine.
14Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
15The flavors will meld together and the ham will become more tender.
16Remove the ham bone from the pot and let it cool.
17Once cool enough to handle, shred the meat and return it to the pot.
18Stir well to combine and cook for an additional 5 minutes.

🔧Equipment

Large pot
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can use canned pinto beans to save time, but be sure to rinse and drain them before adding to the stew. For a spicier stew, add a pinch of cayenne pepper.

Watch Video Of How Ham and Pinto Beans Stew Works

This ham and pinto beans recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a large gathering or just need something comforting on a weeknight dinner plate.

One thing I love about this recipe is how well it stores in the fridge or freezer – just portion it out into individual servings before freezing for an easy meal prep solution whenever needed.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Pinto Beans Stew

1. What is the best way to store leftover ham and pinto beans?

Leftover ham and pinto beans can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. You can also freeze portions for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let the dish cool completely before storing it.

2. Can I use dried pinto beans instead of canned for this recipe?

Yes, you can use dried pinto beans. If you choose to use dried beans, you will need to soak them overnight and then cook them separately before adding them to the recipe. This will add extra time to the cooking process.

3. Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Yes, this recipe can be easily adapted for a slow cooker. Simply combine all the ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. This method allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and results in tender, flavorful beans.

4. What can I serve with ham and pinto beans?

Ham and pinto beans pair well with a variety of sides. Some popular options include cornbread, a fresh green salad, or a side of coleslaw. You can also serve it with rice or a slice of crusty bread.

5. Can I use a different type of ham for this recipe?

Yes, you can use different types of ham in this recipe. Smoked ham hocks, ham shanks, or even diced ham can be used. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time accordingly, as different cuts of ham may require longer cooking times to become tender.

6. Is there a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe?

Yes, you can make a vegetarian or vegan version of this recipe by omitting the ham and adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke for flavor. You can also use vegetable broth instead of ham broth to enhance the taste and depth of the dish.

Hi, I’m Sheba G, the creator behind **Sheba’s Recipe**, where I share my favorite homemade dishes and easy recipes anyone can try. I love experimenting in the kitchen and helping others enjoy simple, flavorful meals with confidence.

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