Ingredients with Measurements:
- 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and sorted
- 1 pound pork jowl, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 bay leaf
- 4 cups chicken broth
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Special equipment needed:
- Slow cooker
Step-by-step instructions:
1. In a large bowl, cover the beans with water and let soak overnight. Drain and rinse the beans.
2. In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the pork jowl pieces on all sides. Transfer to the slow cooker.
3. In the same skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened. Add the tomato paste, smoked paprika, and thyme, and cook for another minute.
4. Add the onion mixture to the slow cooker with the pork jowl. Add the drained beans, bay leaf, and chicken broth. Stir to combine.
5. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 8-10 hours or until the beans are tender and the pork is falling apart.
6. Remove the bay leaf and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Time:
Preparation time: 15 minutes
- Cooking time: 8-10 hours
5. Temperature:
- Low heat setting on the slow cooker
Serving size:
- 6 servings
Nutritional information:
- Calories: 435
- Total fat: 19g
- Saturated fat: 7g
- Cholesterol: 66mg
- Sodium: 790mg
- Total carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary fiber: 11g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 28g
Substitutions for ingredients:
- Navy beans can be substituted with other white beans such as cannellini or great northern beans.
- Pork jowl can be substituted with pork shoulder or pork belly.
Variations:
- Add chopped carrots and celery to the slow cooker for added flavor and nutrition.
- Substitute chicken broth with beef broth or vegetable broth for a different flavor profile.
- Add a can of diced tomatoes for a more tomato-based flavor.
Tips and tricks:
- Soaking the beans overnight will help them cook more evenly and reduce cooking time.
- Browning the pork jowl before adding it to the slow cooker will add depth of flavor to the dish.
- Adding salt to the beans before they are fully cooked can toughen the skins, so it's best to wait until they are tender before seasoning.
Storage instructions:
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating instructions:
- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Presentation ideas:
- Serve in individual bowls with a sprinkle of chopped fresh parsley on top.
Garnishes:
- Chopped fresh parsley or cilantro
- Shredded cheese
- Sour cream
Pairings:
- Cornbread
- Steamed rice
- Roasted vegetables
Suggested side dishes:
- Green salad
- Coleslaw
- Garlic bread
Troubleshooting advice:
- If the beans are still hard after cooking for 8-10 hours, continue cooking for another hour or until tender.
- If the dish is too watery, remove the lid from the slow cooker and cook on high for 30 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Food safety advice:
- Make sure the pork jowl is fully cooked before serving. It should reach an internal temperature of 145°F.
- Store leftovers promptly in the refrigerator to prevent bacterial growth.
Food history:
- Pork and beans is a classic American dish that dates back to the early colonial period. It was a popular dish among sailors and soldiers because it was cheap, filling, and easy to make.
Flavor profiles:
- This dish has a smoky, savory flavor from the pork jowl and smoked paprika. The beans add a creamy texture and mild flavor.
Serving suggestions:
- Serve with a side of cornbread and a cold beer for a classic American meal.
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