Classic American Nanny-Beans Recipe

4 stars
4.21 (11)
Classic American Nanny-Beans Recipe
Prep Time:
20 mins
Cook Time:
120 mins
Total Time:
140mins
Category:
Recipe by Administrator
Published on January 29, 2024

Enjoy the hearty and comforting flavors of Nanny-Beans, a classic American recipe that will satisfy your taste buds. Made with tender beans, savory meat, and a blend of spices, this dish is perfect for family meals or potlucks. It's easy to prepare and will keep you warm on a chilly day. Follow this recipe to create a tasty and filling dish that will surely become a favorite in your household.

Ingredients

  • 1 pound dry navy beans
  • 6 cups water
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound ham hock or bacon
  • 2 bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup brown sugar
  • 1/4 cup molasses
  • 1/4 cup tomato paste
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce

Directions

  1. Rinse the navy beans and soak them overnight in water.
  2. In a large pot, combine the soaked beans, water, diced onion, minced garlic, ham hock or bacon, bay leaves, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and let it simmer for 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender.
  4. Remove the ham hock or bacon from the pot and set aside. Remove the bay leaves as well.
  5. In a small bowl, mix together the brown sugar, molasses, tomato paste, apple cider vinegar, and Worcestershire sauce.
  6. Add the sauce mixture to the pot of beans and stir well.
  7. Continue simmering the beans for an additional 15 minutes, until the flavors are well combined.
  8. If desired, remove some of the beans from the pot and mash them with a fork or potato masher to thicken the sauce.
  9. Serve the nanny-beans hot with the reserved ham hock or bacon on the side, or chopped and mixed into the beans.

Interesting Facts

  • Nanny-Beans gets its name from the traditional role of older women in American households who would slow-cook beans for hours to create a flavorful and comforting dish.
  • This recipe can also be made in a slow cooker or instant pot for added convenience.
  • Navy beans are a great source of fiber and protein, making this dish both delicious and nutritious.
  • Leftovers of nanny-beans can be enjoyed the next day as the flavors intensify and meld together even more.