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–+ servings
a bowl of pinto beans with a spoon
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Southern Pinto Beans with Country Ham

A simple yet delicious classic with slow cooked flavor and no fussing.
Course Main Course, Side Dish
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 3 hours
Soak time 12 hours
Total Time 15 hours 10 minutes
Servings 5 people
Calories 157kcal
Author Rachel Ballard

Equipment

  • Stock pot

Ingredients

  • 16 ounces pinto beans
  • 1/2 gallon water more may be needed as the beans simmer
  • 3/4 tablespoon coarse sea salt start with half as much table salt if using
  • 2 ounces country ham a heaping 1/4 cup, or 2 small "biscuit" slices

Instructions

  • Add dried beans to a bowl and cover with water. Sort through the beans by letting them fall between your fingers and remove any stones or dirt. Drain the water.
  • Cover the beans with clean water at least 2" over the beans. Let the beans soak overnight or for 8-12 hours.
  • After 12 hours, drain the water and move the beans to a large pot. Add the ham and cover with 2-3 inches of fresh water. Bring to a very gentle simmer over medium low/low heat and simmer 2 1/2 hours stirring gently only once or twice an hour.
  • Add salt (half to start), stir, wait 5 minutes and taste; adjust seasoning to your preference. Simmer an additional 30 to 45 minutes until the beans are tender throughout.

Nutrition

Calories: 157kcal | Carbohydrates: 24g | Protein: 11g | Fat: 2g | Saturated Fat: 1g | Cholesterol: 7mg | Sodium: 1201mg | Potassium: 428mg | Fiber: 8g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 55mg | Iron: 2mg