Creamy White Beans with Smoky Ham Sauce

This delicious and savory recipe of creamy white beans with smoky ham sauce offers a comforting and rich taste, perfect for any meal. The dish features tender white beans cooked to perfection, combined with flavorful smoked ham and sautéed onions, forming a delightful base. This comforting combination is elevated with a creamy tomato-based sauce, making each bite burst with flavor. The dish not only satisfies the palate but also provides a wholesome, nutritious meal, rich in protein and fiber. With its quick preparation time and straightforward steps, this dish is ideal for a cozy family dinner or an impressive meal for guests. It pairs exceptionally well with crusty bread, rice, or roasted vegetables. Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe is straightforward and provides room for creative variations. The inclusion of red pepper adds a subtle kick, complementing the creamy texture. You'll find this recipe to be both hearty and satisfying, making it a rewarding addition to your culinary repertoire.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 300 g white beans
• 250 g smoked ham
• 100 g onion
• 60 g vegetable oil
• 150 g heavy cream
• 100 g tomato sauce

Spices and Sauces:

• Salt
• Red pepper

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 45 minutes (including prep and cook time)

Step-by-Step Instruction

1. Prepare the Beans: Soak the white beans in water overnight, then drain them and rinse well.
2. Cook the Beans: Place the soaked beans in a large pot, cover with water, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat. Simmer until the beans are tender, approximately 30 minutes.
3. Drain and Set Aside: Once cooked, drain the beans using a sieve and set aside.
4. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion into half-moons. Slice the smoked ham into small pieces.
5. Sauté Onions: In a skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat and sauté the onions for 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
6. Add the Ham: Add the sliced ham to the onions. Cook together, stirring occasionally, until the ham is lightly browned.
7. Combine with Beans: Add the sautéed ham and onions to the cooked beans. Mix well to combine.
8. Season the Dish: Sprinkle with salt and red pepper as desired, stirring gently to distribute the flavors.
9. Prepare the Creamy Sauce: In a bowl, combine the heavy cream and tomato sauce, stirring until smooth.
10. Mix Sauce and Beans: Pour the creamy tomato sauce over the beans and gently stir until the beans are coated and the sauce is evenly distributed.
11. Adjust Seasoning: Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning, adding more salt or red pepper if needed.
12. Simmer for Flavor: Allow the dish to simmer for a few more minutes over low heat to blend the flavors.
13. Monitor Consistency: Keep an eye on the consistency, adding a bit of water if necessary to achieve a creamy texture.
14. Final Stirrings: Give the dish a final stir to ensure all ingredients are well incorporated.
15. Serve Warm: Transfer the dish to a serving platter and serve while warm.

Tips

• Soaking Beans: For a quicker preparation, use canned beans, but be sure to rinse them well.
• Ham Substitution: Use bacon or turkey bacon for a different flavor.
• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper to suit your spice preference.
• Cream Alternatives: For a lighter version, substitute the heavy cream with low-fat cream or Greek yogurt.

Nutritions

• Calories: Approximately 450 kcal per serving
• Protein: 20 g
• Fats: 25 g
• Carbs: 40 g

Variations

• Vegetarian Option: Replace ham with sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.
• Vegan Version: Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and omit the ham.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños for an extra spicy version.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with crusty bread for a delightful crunch.
• Serve with sautéed greens or a simple mixed salad on the side.
• Enjoy with a side of rice or quinoa for a complete meal.

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