Smoky White Beans & Ham

Total Time

Prep: 35 min. + soaking Cook: 6 hours

Makes

10 servings

Updated: Dec. 03, 2023
I had never made or eaten this dish before meeting my husband here in Kentucky. Now I make it at least once a week. I serve it with some homemade sweet cornbread. Delicious! —Christine Duffy, Sturgis, Kentucky
Smoky White Beans & Ham Recipe photo by Taste of Home

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dried great northern beans
  • 3 smoked ham hocks (about 1-1/2 pounds)
  • 1 large onion, chopped
  • 3 cans (14-1/2 ounces each) reduced-sodium chicken or beef broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon onion powder
  • 1 tablespoon garlic powder
  • 2 teaspoons pepper
  • Thinly sliced green onions, optional

Directions

  1. Rinse and sort beans. Place in a large saucepan; add water to cover by 2 in. Let soak, covered, overnight. Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid.
  2. Return beans to saucepan; add water to cover by 2 in. Bring to a boil. Boil 15 minutes. Drain and rinse beans, discarding liquid.
  3. Transfer beans to a 6-qt. slow cooker. Add ham hocks. Stir in onion, broth, water and seasonings. Cook, covered, on low until beans are tender, 6-8 hours.
  4. Remove meat from bones when cool enough to handle; cut ham into small pieces and return to slow cooker. Serve with a slotted spoon. If desired, sprinkle with onions.

Nutrition Facts

2/3 cup: 195 calories, 2g fat (0 saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 505mg sodium, 32g carbohydrate (2g sugars, 10g fiber), 15g protein. Diabetic Exchanges: 2 starch, 2 lean meat.