Introduction

Have you ever wondered how to turn a few simple ingredients into a hearty and flavorful meal that warms the soul? The beauty of the Slow Cooker Smoky Ham & Bean Stew lies in its ability to transform everyday ingredients into a delicious, comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. This recipe not only challenges the notion that home-cooked meals take hours but also provides a solution for busy individuals seeking nourishment without the fuss. With our focus keyword in mind, let’s explore the delightful world of slow cooking!

Ingredients List

• 1 lb smoked ham hock or diced ham
• 2 cups dried navy beans or cannellini beans, soaked overnight
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 medium carrots, sliced
• 2 stalks celery, sliced
• 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp ground cumin
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

For substitutions, consider using turkey ham for a leaner option, or adding a splash of liquid smoke for extra smokiness. You can also switch up the beans based on what you have available or prefer.

Timing

Preparation for this delectable stew takes only 20 minutes, and the slow cooker does all the heavy lifting, cooking the dish for 6-8 hours on low or 4-5 hours on high. This total cooking time can be 20% less than many other stew recipes, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients

Begin by rinsing and soaking the dried beans overnight. This is an essential step for the perfect texture and reduces cooking time. If you’re pressed for time, consider using canned beans instead.

Step 2: Layer the Slow Cooker

In the slow cooker, start by adding the ham hock or diced ham, followed by the soaked beans. Layer in the chopped onion, minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Ensure an even distribution so every bite has a wonderful combination of flavors.

Step 3: Add Liquid and Spices

Pour in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and the chicken broth. Stir in the smoked paprika, ground cumin, and bay leaves. This smoky blend is what gives our stew that irresistible depth of flavor!

Step 4: Cook to Perfection

Cover the slow cooker, set it to low, and let it work its magic for 6-8 hours. If you’re in a hurry, the high setting will do the trick in 4-5 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the beans are tender and the ham is falling off the bone.

Step 5: Final Touches

Once cooked, remove the ham hock and let it cool slightly before pulling off the meat and chopping it into bite-sized pieces. Stir the meat back into the stew, discard the bay leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve hot, with crusty bread or over rice for a hearty meal that the entire family will love!

Nutritional Information

• Calories: Approximately 290 per serving
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Sodium: 650mg (varies by ham used)

This delicious stew is not only satisfying but is also packed with protein and fiber, making it a filling meal that promotes good health.

Healthier Alternatives for the Recipe

If you’re looking to lighten up this recipe while keeping all the smoky flavors intact, consider these alternatives:

• Replace the smoked ham with a vegetarian protein option, such as smoked tempeh or tofu marinated in liquid smoke.
• Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
• For a lower-carb option, substitute beans with diced zucchini or cauliflower.

These swaps maintain the essence of the dish while catering to specific dietary preferences.

Serving Suggestions

For a delightful presentation, serve your Slow Cooker Smoky Ham & Bean Stew in rustic bowls, pairing with crusty artisan bread or cornbread for dipping. Consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chili flakes for those who like heat. A light side salad can balance the richness of the stew.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Soaking Step: This can lead to beans that are tough and not fully cooked. Always soak your beans overnight for the best results.
• Not Tasting Before Serving: Seasoning adjustments are crucial. Be sure to taste the stew at the end of cooking to achieve the desired flavor.
• Overfilling the Slow Cooker: When using a standard slow cooker, fill it no more than two-thirds full to allow for proper cooking and preventing overflow.

Storing Tips for the Recipe

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months. When reheating, add a splash of broth if it thickens too much. For meal prep, consider portioning out servings into freezer bags for easy grab-and-go meals!

Conclusion

Slow Cooker Smoky Ham & Bean Stew is the ultimate comforting meal that is easy to prepare and packed with flavor. Whether enjoyed on a chilly evening or shared with loved ones, it’s sure to be a hit. Try this recipe, and don’t forget to share your thoughts and experiences in the comments. Subscribe for more delicious recipes and updates!

FAQs

A: Can I use canned beans instead of dried beans?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time, feel free to use 2 cans of drained and rinsed beans. Just add them during the last hour of cooking to heat through.

B: Can I make this stew in advance?

Yes! The flavors tend to deepen when stored, making it even tastier. You can prepare it a day ahead, store it in the fridge, and reheat before serving.

C: How can I adjust the spice level?

If you prefer a milder stew, simply reduce the amount of smoked paprika and omit any additional chili pepper. For extra heat, consider adding jalapeños or cayenne pepper.

D: Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, the recipe is gluten-free! Just ensure your broth and any additional ingredients are certified gluten-free.

E: Can I add other vegetables to this stew?

Absolutely! Feel free to include vegetables such as bell peppers, sweet potatoes, or even kale for added nutrition and flavor.

Ultimate Slow Cooker Smoky Ham & Bean Stew Recipe Delight

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: jamal
• Total Time: 6 hours 20 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Discover a comforting Slow Cooker Ham & Bean Stew that’s rich in smoky flavors. Perfect for a cozy meal any day of the week! (152 chars)

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

1 lb smoked ham hock or diced ham

2 cups dried navy beans or cannellini beans, soaked overnight

1 medium onion, chopped

2 cloves garlic, minced

3 medium carrots, sliced

2 stalks celery, sliced

1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices

4 cups low-sodium chicken broth

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

½ teaspoon ground cumin

2 bay leaves

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh parsley, for garnish

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

Rinse and soak the dried beans overnight. Alternatively, use canned beans.

Layer the slow cooker starting with the ham, followed by soaked beans, onion, garlic, carrots, and celery.

Add diced tomatoes and chicken broth, then stir in spices.

Cover and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until beans are tender.

Remove the ham hock, shred the meat, and stir it back into the stew. Adjust seasoning.

Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Notes

A hearty and flavorful slow cooker recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting meal perfect for any occasion.

• Prep Time: 20 minutes
• Cook Time: 6 hours
• Category: Dinner
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6 servings
• Calories: 290
• Sugar: 0g
• Fat: 7g
• Carbohydrates: 30g
• Fiber: 10g
• Protein: 18g