Classic Southern Butter Beans Recipe

Indulge in the comfort of creamy butter beans with this classic Southern recipe. The tender beans are simmered in a flavorful broth until they are perfectly seasoned and creamy. This dish pairs well with cornbread and is a staple of Southern cuisine. Enjoy this delicious and satisfying side dish at your next family gathering or weeknight meal.

Ingredients

• 1 pound dried butter beans
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 smoked ham hock
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 2 bay leaves
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Hot sauce (optional)

Directions

1. Rinse the dried butter beans and soak them overnight in water. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the soaked butter beans, ham hock, chicken broth, bay leaves, salt, and black pepper to the pot.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 45 minutes to 1 hour, or until the beans are tender and creamy.
6. Remove the ham hock from the pot and shred the meat. Discard the bone, fat, and any gristle.
7. Return the shredded meat to the pot and stir well to incorporate it with the beans.
8. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with salt, black pepper, and hot sauce if desired.
9. Serve the Southern butter beans hot with cornbread or as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal.

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