HAM & WHITE BEANS

### Directions

#### Step 1: Prepare the Beans
Begin by sorting through the **dried beans** to remove any debris or small stones. Then, rinse the beans thoroughly under cold water. While soaking isn’t absolutely necessary, it helps reduce the cooking time and can make the beans easier to digest. To soak, simply cover the beans with water and let them sit for about **6-8 hours** or overnight. Alternatively, you can use the quick-soak method: bring the beans to a boil in a pot with water, let them boil for **2 minutes**, then cover and let them sit for **1 hour** before draining.

#### Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat **olive oil** over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the **chopped onion** and cook for about **5 minutes** until it softens and turns translucent. Add the **garlic** and cook for another **1-2 minutes**, stirring constantly until fragrant.

#### Step 3: Add the Ham
If you’re using a **ham hock**, add it to the pot along with the sautéed onions and garlic. The ham hock will release its rich, smoky flavor into the beans as it simmers. If you’re using **cubed cooked ham**, you can add it in later to prevent it from becoming too dry or overcooked.

#### Step 4: Simmer the Beans
Add the soaked and drained **white beans** to the pot along with **chicken broth** (or water, if you prefer). Add the **bay leaf** and **dried thyme** for flavor. Stir everything together, then bring the mixture to a boil. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let the beans simmer for about **1.5 to 2 hours**, or until the beans are tender and the flavors have melded together. If you’re using a ham hock, check it periodically and remove the bone once it becomes tender.

#### Step 5: Season and Adjust
Once the beans are tender, taste the broth and adjust the seasoning with **salt** and **pepper** to your liking. If you prefer a little acidity to balance the richness, add **apple cider vinegar** to taste. This small addition helps brighten the flavors and adds a subtle tang.

#### Step 6: Serve
If you’ve used a **ham hock**, remove it from the pot and discard the bone. Chop any remaining ham into small pieces and return it to the pot. Stir everything together and cook for another **5 minutes** to ensure the ham is heated through. Ladle the **Ham & White Beans** into bowls and garnish with freshly chopped **parsley** for a touch of color and freshness.

### Why You’ll Love Ham & White Beans

There’s so much to love about this dish, and it’s more than just its simple ingredients. Here are a few reasons why **Ham & White Beans** has earned its place as a comforting favorite:

– **Rich, Savory Flavor**: The ham, especially if you use a **ham hock**, infuses the beans with a deep, savory flavor that makes every bite delicious. The slow simmering process allows the beans to absorb the smoky, meaty flavors, resulting in a dish that is comforting and hearty.
– **Simple & Budget-Friendly**: This dish is made with basic pantry staples like dried beans, ham, and broth. It’s an affordable meal that can easily be scaled up to feed a crowd or to have leftovers for the next day.
– **Nutritious & Filling**: Beans are a great source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, making this a filling and nourishing meal. The addition of ham adds a delicious source of flavor without the need for excessive seasonings.
– **Versatile**: While the recipe is traditional, you can adjust it to your taste. Add extra seasonings, toss in some chopped vegetables like carrots and celery, or serve the beans with a side of cornbread or rice. The possibilities are endless!
– **Leftovers Make Great Meals**: This dish actually tastes better the next day, making it perfect for meal prepping or enjoying as leftovers. The flavors continue to deepen as it sits, so you’ll have a delicious meal ready to go for a quick lunch or dinner.

### Tips for the Best Ham & White Beans

– **Use a Ham Bone**: If you have a leftover ham bone, it’s perfect for this recipe. The marrow and remnants of the meat will add an extra depth of flavor to the beans as they cook.
– **Add Vegetables**: Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like **carrots**, **celery**, or **bell peppers**. Simply sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning for extra flavor.
– **Use Low-Sodium Broth**: If you’re concerned about sodium, consider using **low-sodium chicken broth** or even water, and adjust the seasoning as needed.
– **For Creamier Beans**: To make the dish even heartier, you can mash some of the beans with a fork or potato masher once they’re cooked. This will create a creamier texture for the broth and add a velvety consistency.

### Conclusion

**Ham & White Beans** is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family meal or need a dish to warm you up on a cold day, this recipe delivers both flavor and satisfaction. The combination of tender beans, savory ham, and aromatic seasonings makes this dish a staple that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

The beauty of **Ham & White Beans** lies in its simplicity and versatility. With just a few ingredients and minimal preparation, you can create a meal that’s as comforting as it is delicious. Give this recipe a try, and savor the flavors of this classic, hearty dish!