White beans, the ultimate Cajun side dish.
You can eat it over rice, with catfish, as a side with chicken stew. The options are endless. It’s healthy, filling, and cheap to make!
I usually cook a large pot and freeze it in Ziploc bags. My kids love white beans and it’s always nice to pull food out the freezer for a quick weeknight meal.
Many people cook white beans with salt meat. I cook mine with smoked hocks.
It gives the beans such a rich flavor.
Here’s how I make it.
These are the smoked hocks I use. It comes in a pack of 2. You will use them both!
I have also used Cannata’s homemade smoked hocks and they are equally as delicious.
These are the white beans I use. I use “navy beans” made in Louisiana. Duh. Or I buy them fresh from the bin in the produce section.
In a large pot, brown the hocks in a little olive oil for a few minutes. Toss in the onion and garlic. Season the onions with salt and pepper.
Add 2 lbs of navy beans and 10 cups of water. Bring to a simmer for 2 hours, stirring every 15-20 minutes or so.
They should start to look kind of creamy after about 2-2 hours and 15 minutes of cooking.
Remove the hocks to a plate and shred meat off the bone. Some hocks don’t have much meat, I just try to get whatever I can and throw it back in the pot because it’s just so delicious.
Add salt to taste. If the beans aren’t creamy enough then cook with the lid off until desired consistency.
Cajun comfort food I tell ya!
White Beans
2 smoked hocks
2 onions, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 lbs navy beans
10 cups water
salt to taste
In a large pot brown the hocks in a little olive oil. Add the onion and garlic. Season with salt and pepper.
When the veggie become translucent, add the beans and water.
Bring to a low simmer, place the lid on and cook for about 2 to 2 1/2 hours. Stir frequently (every 15 minutes or so.)
When beans start to appear creamy, remove the hocks from pot and place on a plate.
Try to remove any meat on the hock and place it back in the pot. (some hocks don’t have a lot of meat, but if there is some DO NOT THROW THIS AWAY. It is like a little flavor bomb.)
Give it a good stir. If beans are not to desired consistency, cook uncovered until extra creamy.
