Hearty Brown Bean Stew 🥣💚

This comforting and flavorful stew is perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a nourishing meal. Rich in protein and fiber, it’s as satisfying as it is delicious. The ham hock adds a smoky depth to the dish, making it a favorite for gatherings or family dinners. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread or some cornbread for a complete meal! 🍞

Ingredients

For the stew

• 1 pound dried pinto beans
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (for soaking)
• 8 cups reduced-salt chicken broth
• 1 3/4 pounds ham hock
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Additional salt, to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Beans: Pick over the dried pinto beans, rinse them under cold water, and place them in a large bowl. Add 1/2 teaspoon of salt and enough water to cover the beans by 3 to 4 inches. Allow them to soak overnight.

💧 Soaking beans not only helps them cook faster but also makes them easier to digest. If you're short on time, a quick soak method is to boil the beans for 2 minutes, then let them sit for 1 hour.

2. Start Cooking: The next day, drain and rinse the soaked beans. Place them in a large pot and stir in the chicken broth, ham hock, black pepper, and additional salt. Bring to a boil over medium heat.

3. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low and let the stew simmer for about 4 hours. Stir occasionally and add water as needed to maintain a soupy consistency.

🔥 The longer you simmer, the more flavorful the beans will become. Just remember to check on them to prevent drying out!

4. Finish Up: Once cooking is complete, remove the ham hock. Shred the meat and stir it back into the stew if desired. Adjust seasoning with more salt, if needed, before serving.

Variations

• Vegetarian: Omit the ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
• Spicy: Toss in some diced jalapeños or cayenne pepper to give the stew a kick! 🌶️
• Add Veggies: Incorporate diced carrots, celery, or bell peppers during the simmering stage for added nutrition and flavor.
• Creamy: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream at the end for a rich finish.

Tips

• Storage: This stew keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 5 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors meld together!
• Freezing: It freezes beautifully! Just portion it into airtight containers for a quick meal later on.

Dig into this hearty brown bean stew and savor each warm, comforting bite! 🥘💖