Here in Indiana we are used to the fact that Mother Nature doesn't always pay attention to the calendar. Back in February it was 80 degrees, and now that it is May, we are having days with highs in the 40's. Add in rain and wind, and it has been pretty miserable. Luckily the sun has returned and temps are feeling more spring like, but last week when we were freezing, this is what was on my dinner table.
We love ham and beans, and I have a terrific recipe for a simple slow cooker version I've been making for years. But this time around I wanted something new. I wanted something a little different. And boy did I get it!
This doesn't taste anything like that traditional ham n beans. Honestly I had never had pinto beans before, but had heard they are a staple down in Texas, and if you want the best, that is where you go. So I was glad when I found this recipe that was supposedly done in that same way.
Now I served these up as a main dish, with some cornbread on the side, but I think they would make a fantastic side dish to any barbecue this summer. Got some burgers, steak or ribs on the grill? A big pot of these would taste so great with any of them!
I will be happy when the weather finally decides to stay warm, sunny and spring like. But I'm a Hoosier, I know there are still some rainy, chilly days in my future...so at least I have some delicious food to ease my woes!
Crock Pot Pinto Beans n Ham
1 (16 oz.) bag Hurst pinto beans
1 lb. diced ham
1 white onion, quartered
6 c. chicken broth
2 c. water
1 tsp. garlic powder
1 tsp. onion powder
1 tsp. pepper
Diced White Onion for garnish
Set seasoning packet of beans aside. Combine beans, broth and water in Crock Pot. Stir well. Cook on HIGH for 4 hours. Remove onion. Add seasoning packet, garlic powder, onion powder, and pepper. Stir. Cook on HIGH another 2-4 hours until beans are tender. Scoop out about 2 cups of beans with broth into a medium bowl. Mash beans into a thick paste. (I like a potato masher for this) Return back to Crock Pot and stir. Cook 30 minutes on LOW until thickened. Remove lid and allow to sit for 1 hour uncovered before serving. Serve with onion if desired.
