Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread
Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread is a comforting dish that warms the soul. This hearty meal is perfect for family gatherings or a cozy dinner at home. The combination of smoky ham hocks and creamy pinto beans creates a satisfying flavor that pairs wonderfully with cornbread. It’s a simple recipe that even beginner cooks can master!
Why Make This Recipe
This recipe is not just tasty; it’s also rich in protein and fiber, making it a healthy choice. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld beautifully, resulting in a truly delicious dish. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or serving it at a potluck, Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread is sure to impress. Plus, it’s easy to prepare and can feed a crowd!
How to Make Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs Ham Hocks
- 1 lb Pinto Beans
- 3 cloves Garlic
- 1 32-ounce Chicken Broth (less Sodium)
- 1 tbsp Butter
- 1 medium Onion (minced)
- 1 stalk Celery (minced)
- 1/2 Green Bell Pepper (minced)
- 1/2 tsp Cumin
- Cornbread (for serving)
- Pickled Onions (for serving)
Directions:
- Rinse the pinto beans and soak them overnight or for at least 6 hours.
- In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat and add the minced onion, celery, and green bell pepper. Sauté until soft.
- Add the garlic and cumin, and cook for another minute.
- Add the ham hocks and soaked pinto beans to the pot. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the meat is falling off the bone.
- Serve with cornbread and pickled onions on the side.
How to Serve Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread
Serve the Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks in a bowl alongside warm cornbread. The cornbread is perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth. Adding pickled onions on top gives a nice tangy contrast to the rich beans.
How to Store Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread
If you have leftovers, let the beans cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the beans for up to 3 months. Just reheat them gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy them again.
Tips to Make Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks and Cornbread
- For the best flavor, use high-quality ham hocks.
- If you like a bit of heat, add some diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce.
- Make sure not to skip soaking the beans! This helps in cooking them evenly.
Variation
If you want to switch up the recipe, try using black beans or kidney beans instead of pinto beans. You can also add other vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
FAQs
1. How long do I need to soak the pinto beans?
Soak the beans overnight or for at least 6 hours to ensure they cook evenly.
2. Can I use fresh garlic instead of garlic powder?
Yes, fresh garlic adds great flavor! The recipe calls for 3 cloves of fresh garlic.
3. How can I make this dish vegetarian?
For a vegetarian version, skip the ham hocks and use vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
Enjoy making and sharing this delightful dish!
