Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans
There’s something inherently comforting about a warm bowl of beans simmering away in a slow cooker. The aroma wafting through your home, the anticipation of a hearty meal, and the joy of sharing it with loved ones all contribute to the experience. This recipe for Slow Cooker Great Northern Beans embodies those feelings perfectly.
Great Northern beans, often overshadowed by their more popular counterparts, have a delightful creamy texture and a subtle, nutty flavor that makes them incredibly versatile. They are a staple in Southern cooking, celebrated for their ability to soak up flavors and provide a rich, satisfying base for countless dishes. Paired with smoky ham and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar, this recipe transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day.
What’s truly wonderful about this recipe is its simplicity. Just a few minutes of prep in the morning, and you can set it and forget it, allowing the slow cooker to work its magic. As the beans cook slowly, they absorb the savory notes of the ham and the sweetness of the brown sugar, creating a dish that’s both hearty and flavorful.
Ingredients:
1 lb Great Northern beans (or substitute with white or cannellini beans).
1/2 cup brown sugar.
1 chopped onion.
1 3/4 lbs smoked ham (or ham hock).
Salt and pepper, to taste.
Water (enough to cover beans).
Instructions:
Step 1
Layer the Beans: Start by placing the dried Great Northern beans at the bottom of the slow cooker.
Step 2
Add Ingredients: Sprinkle the brown sugar over the beans, then add the chopped onion and pieces of smoked ham.
Step 3
Add Water: Pour enough water over the beans to cover them by about two inches.
Step 4
Cooking Time: Cook on high for 2 hours, then reduce the heat to low and continue to simmer for an additional 4 to 5 hours.
Step 5
Finish Up: Once cooked, remove the ham.
Step 6
Shred or chop the meat and return it to the slow cooker with the beans. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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