Slow Cooker Pinto Beans And Ham

Ingredients

1 Meaty Ham Bone

2 ½ cups Pinto Beans (dry or soaked overnight)

8 cups Water (6 cups for soaked beans)

1 large Bay Leaf

5 cloves Garlic, minced (or to taste)

1 lg Onion, diced

½ teaspoon Thyme Leaves, dried (not ground)

2 sprigs Fresh Rosemary

½ teaspoon Pepper

1 teaspoon Kosher Salt

Instructions

Rinse your meaty ham bone (especially if it has pineapple/fruit on it).

Add everything except for the salt to the crock. Stir.

Cook on High for 7-8 hours (for soaked beans cook on Low for 7-8 hours). Stir halfway through cook time and add water if beans are not covered.

Remove the ham bone and bay leaf and discard.

Taste and add salt if needed.

Serve with some bread, if desired.

Nutrition Information:

Serving Size: 1 cup (approximately)

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use canned pinto beans instead of dry ones?

Yes, you can use canned pinto beans.

Adjust the cooking time to allow the flavors to meld; reduce the time to about 4-5 hours on high or 6-8 hours on low.

Is it necessary to soak the beans overnight?

No, soaking is optional, but it helps reduce the cooking time and can make the beans more digestible.

If using dry beans without soaking, extend the cooking time.

Can I use a different type of bean?

Certainly, you can experiment with other beans like black beans or navy beans.

Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

How can I add a smoky flavor to the beans?

Consider adding a smoked ham hock or a few slices of smoked bacon for a delicious smoky undertone.

Can I freeze the leftovers?

Yes, these beans freeze well.

Allow them to cool, then store in airtight containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months.

Do I need to stir during the cooking process?

Stirring halfway through the cooking time helps ensure even cooking.

It’s especially important if the beans are not fully submerged in liquid.

Can I use dried rosemary instead of fresh?

Yes, you can substitute dried rosemary.

Use about 1/3 of the amount since dried herbs are more potent than fresh.

What’s the purpose of adding thyme to the recipe?

Thyme adds a subtle earthy flavor to the beans, enhancing the overall taste.

Feel free to adjust the quantity to suit your preference.

Can I use ground pepper instead of pepper flakes?

Absolutely, you can use ground black pepper instead of pepper flakes.

Adjust the amount based on your spice preference.

What bread is best to serve with slow-cooked beans and ham?

A crusty French baguette, cornbread, or a hearty whole-grain bread complements the flavors of the beans and ham.

Choose your favorite bread to serve on the side.