Main menu

Edit post

Pinto Beans Ham Hocks Cornbread And Pickled Onions

Carly
(0)

A Hearty Comfort Classic: Pinto Beans with Ham Hocks

Pinto Beans Ham Hocks Cornbread And Pickled Onions

This dish is a soul-satisfying Southern staple that has been comforting families for generations. The rich, savory flavors of pinto beans simmered with smoky ham hocks create a truly unforgettable meal. Paired with crispy cornbread and tangy pickled onions, this classic combination delivers a perfect balance of textures and tastes. Let's dive into the recipe and elevate this comfort food to new heights.

Ingredients

For the Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks:

  • 2 lbs ham hocks
  • 1 lb pinto beans
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 (32-ounce) carton low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp butter
  • 1 medium onion, minced
  • 1 stalk celery, minced
  • 1/2 green bell pepper, minced
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp dried parsley
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • 1 vegetable bouillon cube

For the Cornbread:

  • (Your favorite cornbread recipe)

For the Pickled Onions:

  • 1 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1 cup white vinegar
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1 tsp salt

Instructions

Preparing the Pinto Beans and Ham Hocks:

  1. Rinse ham hocks thoroughly and place them in a large stockpot with 8 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2 hours.
  2. While the ham hocks are simmering, rinse pinto beans and remove any debris.
  3. Add the rinsed pinto beans, chicken broth, minced garlic, butter, onion, celery, green bell pepper, cumin, paprika, black pepper, parsley, thyme, and vegetable bouillon cube to the pot with the ham hocks.
  4. Bring the mixture back to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 2.5 to 3 hours, or until beans are tender and creamy.
  5. Remove ham hocks from the pot and let cool slightly before shredding the meat. Return shredded ham to the bean mixture.

Tips:

  • For a richer flavor, consider using smoked ham hocks.
  • If you prefer a thicker bean broth, mash some of the cooked beans to release their starch.
  • To enhance the flavor, add a bay leaf during the cooking process. Remove before serving.
  • For a spicier kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes.

Preparing the Cornbread:

  • Follow your favorite cornbread recipe for a classic accompaniment to this dish.

Preparing the Pickled Onions:

  1. In a medium bowl, combine thinly sliced red onion, white vinegar, sugar, and salt.
  2. Stir well to ensure the onion is evenly coated in the pickling liquid.
  3. Let the onions pickle in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the hearty pinto beans and ham hocks alongside warm cornbread and a dollop of tangy pickled onions. This classic combination is perfect for a comforting family meal or a satisfying weeknight dinner.

By following these steps and incorporating the provided tips, you'll create a delicious and satisfying version of this beloved Southern dish. Enjoy!

Comments

Post a Comment