ham beans recipe
The Best ham beans recipe
Classic Ham and Bean Stew
A hearty, comforting stew featuring tender ham, kidney beans, and a savory tomato sauce. Perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly evening.
🥘Ingredients
- 2 lbs (900g) boneless ham, cubed
- 2 cans (15 oz each) kidney beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 cups beef or vegetable broth
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 1 egg, beaten
- 1 tbsp olive oil
👨🍳Directions
-
1
In a large pot, combine cubed ham, kidney beans, diced onion, and minced garlic. Add crushed tomatoes, broth, smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil. -
2
Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until ham is tender and flavors meld. -
3
Preheat oven to 375°F. Mix breadcrumbs with beaten egg and olive oil in a shallow dish. Remove stew from heat and let cool slightly. -
4
Scoop stew into a greased baking tray, spreading evenly. Top each portion with breadcrumb mixture and press lightly. Bake for 15 minutes or until golden.
🔧Equipment
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowls
- Baking tray
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Ham and Bean Stew Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Ham and Bean Stew
How do I adjust the spice level in this ham and beans recipe?
Yes, you can easily tweak the spice level by reducing or omitting the garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. For a milder flavor, use half the amount of each spice. If you prefer more heat, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce at the end of cooking.
Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?
Absolutely. If you’re short on time, use one (14 oz) can of pinto or kidney beans, drained and rinsed, and proceed with the recipe as written. The texture may be slightly softer, but the dish will still taste delicious.
What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?
To reheat, warm the ham and beans in a pot over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally until the mixture is hot through. For extra flavor, sprinkle with a little fresh parsley or a dash of hot sauce before serving.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To remove gluten, ensure your ham is labeled gluten-free and use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. If you’re avoiding gluten entirely, omit the Worcestershire sauce and substitute with a mix of vinegar and a pinch of salt for depth.
Why does the ham sometimes fall apart while cooking?
The ham’s texture depends on its cut—shredded or boneless hams can soften more than bone-in pieces. If it’s falling apart, reduce the heat slightly and cover the pot to slow the cooking process. For a firmer texture, use a pre-cooked, bone-in ham.
