4-Ingredient Southern Ham Hocks and Pinto Beans

 4-Ingredient Southern Ham Hocks and Pinto Beans

A simple, hearty, and comforting Southern-style dinner made with just a few inexpensive ingredients. The slow-cooked ham hocks add a rich, smoky flavor while the pinto beans become tender, creamy, and delicious.

Ingredients

• 2 cups dried pinto beans
• 2 pounds smoked ham hocks
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 6 cups water or chicken broth

Instructions

1. Rinse the dried pinto beans thoroughly and remove any small stones or damaged beans.
2. Place the rinsed beans in a large slow cooker.
3. Add the smoked ham hocks and chopped onion.
4. Pour in the water or chicken broth. Make sure the ingredients are mostly covered with liquid.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on Low for 8–10 hours or on High for 5–6 hours, until the beans are tender and creamy and the ham is falling off the bone.
6. Carefully remove the ham hocks from the slow cooker. Let them cool slightly, then remove the meat from the bones.
7. Discard the bones and any excess fat, then shred or chop the meat.
8. Return the meat to the slow cooker and stir everything together.
9. Serve hot and enjoy this rich, comforting Southern-style meal!

Serving Suggestions

Serve your ham hocks and pinto beans with:

• Cornbread
• White rice
• Sliced onions
• Hot sauce
• Fresh greens

Tip: The ham hocks usually add plenty of salty, smoky flavor, so taste the beans before adding any extra salt.