Savory Slow-Cooked Northern Beans

 

 

“A hearty, comforting dish that’s easy to make and perfect for a cozy meal or as a side dish.”

This Slow-Cooked Northern Beans recipe combines tender beans with rich, smoky, and savory flavors. It’s simple, nutritious, and incredibly satisfying.

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Ingredients

• 1 pound dried Great Northern beans (or substitute with navy beans)
• 6 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock (or 4 slices of thick-cut bacon, chopped)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste (add later to avoid toughening the beans)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter (optional, for richness)

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Optional Add-Ins

• 1 cup diced carrots (for a touch of sweetness)
• 1 cup diced celery (for added flavor)
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (for a slight kick)

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Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Beans

1. Rinse the dried beans thoroughly under cold water and remove any debris.
2. Optional: Soak the beans overnight in water to reduce cooking time and improve texture. Drain and rinse before cooking.

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Step 2: Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker

1. Place the beans in your slow cooker.
2. Add the onion, garlic, ham hock (or bacon), bay leaf, thyme, smoked paprika, and black pepper.
3. Pour in the water or chicken broth, ensuring the beans are covered by at least 2 inches of liquid.

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Step 3: Slow Cook

1. Cover and cook on LOW for 8–10 hours, or on HIGH for 4–6 hours, until the beans are tender and creamy.
2. Check the beans occasionally and add more liquid if needed to keep them submerged.

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Step 4: Season and Serve

1. Once the beans are fully cooked, remove the ham hock and shred any meat. Stir the meat back into the beans.
2. Season with salt to taste and drizzle with olive oil or butter for added richness.
3. Serve warm, garnished with fresh herbs like parsley or green onions.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich and Smoky Flavor: The ham hock or bacon infuses the beans with a deep, savory taste.
• Versatile Dish: Enjoy as a main course with cornbread or as a side dish for roasted meats.
• Easy and Hands-Off: Let your slow cooker do all the work while you go about your day.

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Pro Tips for Success

1. Don’t Skip the Soak (Optional): Soaking the beans reduces cooking time and can make them easier to digest.
2. Ham Hock Substitute: If you don’t have a ham hock, use smoked turkey or add a splash of liquid smoke for similar flavor.
3. Creamier Beans: Mash a portion of the cooked beans against the side of the slow cooker and stir them back in for a thicker consistency.

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Storage and Reheating

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze in portions for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
• Reheat: Warm gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen if needed.

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This Savory Slow-Cooked Northern Beans recipe is a true classic, delivering comfort in every bite. Pair it with cornbread, rice, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal. 🍲✨ Enjoy!