beans, beans, and more beans

1 lb bag of your favorite dried beans (I love pink, navy, red or pinto)
Rinse and soak overnight in a large pot of water (can quick soak following the directions on the bag)


Strain and rinse the beans.


In a large pot or crock pot, add the following:
1 c chopped onion
1 c chopped carrot
1 c chopped celery
(I cheat and use the mirepoix from TJ's)


Option: 1 chopped green pepper


Your favorite meat for flavor....1-2 ham hocks or a leftover ham bone, 4-6 smoked sausage links cut in slices, 2 cups of chopped ham, leftover bacon, or any other cooked meat cut into bite size pieces (or go vegetarian and pass on the meat)


3-4 minced garlic cloves (or 3 cubes of TJ's frozen garlic)
1/4 finely chopped favorite herb such as cilantro, parsley, or basil
4 cups of chicken or veggie stock (or more if you want a lot of broth in the end)


Options:  1 can of Rotel to add a little kick or your favorite can of roasted chopped tomatoes, 1-2 tsp of Tony Chachere's Creole Seasoning, and/or 1 small can of chopped green chilies 


Mix everything together, slow cook covered on the stove or in a crock pot on high for about 4 hours.....check periodically...turn off when the beans get to desired tenderness.




This is a meal all in one...my kids love cornbread with it and give it a splash of your favorite hot sauce...we love Lousiana hot sauce!


Leftovers freeze well for a meal down the road.


created by c