Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew is one of those comforting recipes that warms the heart as much as it fills the belly. With its hearty blend of navy beans, tender ham, and flavorful vegetables, it’s a go-to dish I often rely on during chilly evenings. I remember the first time I made it; the aroma wafting through my kitchen was enough to draw my family around the dinner table in eager anticipation. Sturdily nourishing without overcomplication, this stew is perfect for weeknight dinners, holiday gatherings, or simply when you need a little extra comfort in your bowl.

What makes this recipe special

You might be wondering why you should put Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew on your meal plan. Well, I’ve got a few compelling reasons! First and foremost, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. Dried navy beans are inexpensive and packed with protein, making them an excellent choice for families or those looking to stretch their budgets. This dish also champions simplicity. You can toss everything into the slow cooker in the morning, and by dinner time, you have a delicious, home-cooked meal waiting for you.

“I made this stew last week, and it was a hit! My kids devoured it and even asked for seconds. I love how easy it was to throw together in the slow cooker.” – Jamie, home cook

How this recipe comes together

Ready to dive in? Here’s how it works: You’ll start by soaking the navy beans overnight, ensuring they bloom into fluffy perfection. The next day, it’s as easy as combining all your ingredients into the slow cooker, setting the timer, and letting the magic happen. With minimal effort, you’re rewarded with a flavorful stew that’s both hearty and satisfying.

What you’ll need

To whip up this delightful dish, gather the following ingredients:

1 lb dried navy beans
4 cups water
1 cup diced ham
1 onion, chopped
2 carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp thyme
1 bay leaf
Salt and pepper to taste

Feel free to adapt this ingredient list to your liking; for example, leftover holiday ham works wonderfully in this stew, and you can use any variety of beans you have on hand if navy beans aren’t available.

Step-by-step instructions

Rinse the navy beans thoroughly and soak them in water overnight to rehydrate them. Drain and rinse the beans again before using.
In your slow cooker, mix together the soaked beans, water, diced ham, chopped onion, sliced carrots, sliced celery, minced garlic, thyme, and bay leaf.
Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper according to your taste.
Cover and slow-cook the mixture on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours, until the beans are tender.
Before serving, remember to remove that bay leaf; it’ll have done its job imparting flavor! Then, ladle up your stew and enjoy!

Best ways to enjoy it

When it comes to serving Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew, consider pairing it with crusty bread for dipping or a crisp green salad to add some freshness to your meal. You might also top each bowl with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, like parsley or chives, to enhance the presentation. For a heartier experience, serve it alongside some cornbread or homemade biscuits.

Keeping leftovers fresh

After you’ve relished your stew, proper storage is key for extending its deliciousness. Allow any leftovers to cool down, then transfer them to airtight containers. Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew can be stored in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze the stew for up to 3 months. Just make sure to thaw it in the fridge before reheating.

Helpful cooking tips

To enhance your stew, consider sautéing the onions, carrots, and celery in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the slow cooker; this adds an extra depth of flavor. If you prefer a thicker stew, you can mash a few beans against the sides of the slow cooker towards the end of cooking for a creamier texture.

Recipe variations

Why not get creative? You can play around with flavors by adding different herbs, such as rosemary or even a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky kick. If you want to make it vegetarian, simply replace the ham with smoked tempeh or just increase the variety of vegetables and beans. Adding some kale or spinach near the end of cooking also boosts the nutritional profile, making your stew even more wholesome.

Common questions

What is the prep time for this recipe?
The actual prep time is minimal—around 15 minutes for chopping and soaking. Just remember to soak your beans overnight.
Can I use canned beans instead?
Absolutely! If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute canned navy beans for dried; just use about 3 cans and decrease the cooking time since they are already cooked.
How do I reheat leftovers safely?
When reheating, make sure to warm your stew thoroughly, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F. You can do this on the stove or in the microwave. Always store leftover foods in the refrigerator no later than two hours after preparation.

Indulging in this Slow Cooker Ham and Bean Stew not only satisfies your taste buds but also makes your kitchen feel like a warm, inviting haven. Trust me, once you try it, it may just become a favorite in your meal rotation.