It’s a crisp, autumn morning, and you’re greeted by the warm, hearty aroma of great northern beans slowly simmering in your crockpot. The house is filled with the anticipation of a comforting meal. That’s the magic of Crockpot Great Northern Beans.
The simplicity of this recipe belies the rich flavors it delivers. It takes just 10 minutes to set up, and then your trusty slow cooker does the rest. As the hours pass, the beans transform into tender morsels, soaking up the smoky essence of the ham hock, mingling with the earthiness of carrots and celery.
Beans and Family Traditions
Great Northern Beans have always held a special place in my heart. My grandmother, a wise cook with a flair for creating dishes that felt like a warm embrace, used to make a similar recipe during family gatherings.
I remember the savory scent of ham hock and beans that would fill her kitchen. It was a fragrance that announced good times ahead. As kids, we’d eagerly wait for her to declare that dinner was ready.
The first spoonful of these beans, tender and flavorful, would transport us to a place of comfort and belonging. We’d sit around the table, sharing stories, and savoring every bite.
I recently made this crockpot version for a family reunion, hoping to recreate those cherished moments. As the lid of the slow cooker came off, the aroma brought smiles to everyone’s faces. The taste was as heartwarming as the memories.
So, dear reader, why not bring some slow-cooked comfort into your own home? Imagine the joy of setting up this easy recipe in the morning and returning to a house filled with the inviting scent of beans. As you savor a spoonful, let it transport you to a place of warmth and togetherness, even if it’s just for a moment. And who knows, it might just become a cherished tradition in your family too.
- Ease of Prep: Just 10 minutes to set up.
- Slow Cook Magic: Tender beans in 5 hours.
- Nutrition Packed: High in protein and fiber.
- Versatility: Perfect with cornbread or biscuits.
Crockpot Great Northern Beans
Dive into the simplicity and richness of these Crockpot Great Northern Beans. It’s a slow-cooked delight, brimming with flavor and comfort.
Equipment
Ingredients
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Dry Great Northern Beans | 2 pounds |
| Water | 6 cups |
| Ham Hock | 1-½ pounds |
| Salt | To taste |
| Black Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
| Large Carrot, sliced/chopped | 1 |
| Large Celery Stalk, sliced/chopped | 1 |
| Cayenne Pepper | ½ teaspoon |
Instructions
- Combine All: Toss everything into the slow cooker.
- Cooking Time: Set to high for 4-5 hours or low for 7-8 hours.
- Ham Prep: Remove ham hock, add ham bits back.
- Final Touch: Stir, taste, season with salt.
- Serve Hot: Best enjoyed with a side of cornbread or biscuits.
Nutritional Information (per serving)
- Calories: 805kcal
- Carbs: 96g
- Protein: 58g
- Fat: 22g
Serving Suggestions
- Side Options: Cornbread, biscuits, or a fresh salad.
- Customize: Add onions or garlic for an extra flavor boost.
Storage
- Fridge: Store leftovers for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freezes well for future quick meals.
Looking for more slow cooker recipes? Check out our collection of easy crockpot dishes for busy days!
Special Equipment: A slow cooker is all you need for this simple and hearty bean recipe.
Serving Suggestions: These Crockpot Great Northern Beans are perfect when served with cornbread, biscuits, or alongside a fresh salad.
Tips & Variations:
- Flavor Boost: Enhance the flavor by adding diced onions and minced garlic to the beans.
- Spice it Up: If you like a bit of heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick.
- Vegetarian Option: Skip the ham hock for a vegetarian version and use vegetable broth instead of water.
Common Questions:
Can I use canned beans instead of dry beans?
While you can use canned beans, the slow cooking process with dry beans imparts a richer flavor and creamier texture to the dish.
Can I substitute ham hock with something else?
If you don’t have ham hock, you can use smoked turkey wings or a smoked turkey leg for a similar smoky flavor.
Feel free to reach out with any more questions or share your crockpot bean-cooking adventures with us. Enjoy your hearty meal!
Enjoy Your Hearty Bean Meal! Happy Cooking and Creating Heartwarming Memories!
