Are you a fan of ham and beans? Do you follow the Weight Watchers program and wonder how many points are in this classic dish?
Look no further! In this article, we’ll explore the points value of different types of ham and beans, as well as share some delicious and healthy recipes for you to try.
Whether you prefer a hearty soup or a simple sandwich, we’ve got you covered. So grab a cup of coffee and let’s dive in!
How Many Weight Watcher Points In Ham And Beans?
When it comes to ham and beans, the number of Weight Watchers points can vary depending on the type of ham and beans used. According to Weight Watchers, a medium slice of honey roast ham has 1 point, while a slice of canned ham also has 1 point. Parma ham and wafer-thin ham are lower in points, with 1/2 a point for a slice of Parma ham or 30 g of wafer-thin ham.
As for beans, navy beans are a great option as they are low in fat and high in fiber. One cup of navy beans contains a whopping 19 grams of fiber! When cooking navy beans, it’s recommended to pre-soak them using either the quick soak method or the overnight soak method.
When making ham and navy bean soup, it’s important to use navy beans that are not canned. Using dried navy beans will give you the best flavor and texture. A serving size of this hearty soup is about one cup and contains 4 WW points plus.
Understanding Weight Watcher Points
The Weight Watchers program uses a points system to help individuals make healthier food choices and manage their daily intake. Each food is assigned a certain number of points based on its nutritional content, including calories, saturated fat, protein, and sugar. The goal is to stay within your daily and weekly point allowance while still enjoying the foods you love.
When it comes to ham and beans, the number of points can vary depending on the type of ham and beans used. For example, a medium slice of honey roast ham has 1 point, while a slice of canned ham also has 1 point. Parma ham and wafer-thin ham are lower in points, with 1/2 a point for a slice of Parma ham or 30 g of wafer-thin ham.
As for beans, navy beans are a great option as they are low in fat and high in fiber. One cup of navy beans contains a whopping 19 grams of fiber! When cooking navy beans, it’s recommended to pre-soak them using either the quick soak method or the overnight soak method.
When making ham and navy bean soup, it’s important to use navy beans that are not canned. Using dried navy beans will give you the best flavor and texture. A serving size of this hearty soup is about one cup and contains 4 WW points plus.
It’s important to keep in mind that the Weight Watchers program is not just about counting points but also about making healthier choices and developing a balanced approach to eating. By understanding the point system and making informed choices about the foods you eat, you can achieve your weight loss goals while still enjoying delicious meals like ham and beans.
Points Value Of Different Types Of Ham
When it comes to ham, there are different types that vary in Weight Watchers points value. Boneless ham is a popular choice and a medium slice of honey roast ham has 1 point. A medium slice is approximately 35 g and is what you would buy pre-packaged to put in your sandwiches from the supermarket. Canned ham also has 1 point per slice. However, for those looking to save on points, Parma ham and wafer-thin ham are great alternatives. A slice of Parma ham is only 1/2 a point, while 30 g of wafer-thin ham is also only 1/2 a point.
It’s worth noting that “ham” indicates a cured pork leg that is at least 20.5% protein with no added water. When opting for bone-in ham, it’s important to consider the part of the ham you buy. The shank end (or leg portion) tends to be leaner and has one long bone, which makes carving easier. It’s a good choice for a picture-perfect table and a great option for those who want to save on points. On the other hand, the butt end (the top half of the ham) has more tender, fattier meat, lending a richer flavor. However, it does have a T-shaped bone inside that can be tricky to carve around.
Points Value Of Different Types Of Beans
Different types of beans have varying points values when it comes to Weight Watchers. For example, kidney beans have a points value of 0 on the program, while black beans have a points value of 1 per half cup. Chickpeas also have a points value of 1 per half cup, and pinto beans have a points value of 2 per half cup.
Lentils are another great option for those on Weight Watchers, as they have a points value of 0 on the program. They are also packed with fiber and protein, making them a filling and nutritious addition to any meal.
It’s important to note that when cooking with canned beans, the points value may differ depending on whether or not they are drained and rinsed. It’s recommended to check the label and adjust the points accordingly.
Calculating Points For Ham And Beans Dishes
Calculating the Weight Watchers points for ham and beans dishes can be a bit tricky, as it depends on several factors such as the type of ham, beans, and other ingredients used. To calculate the points, you need to know the nutritional values of each ingredient and the serving size.
To begin with, you can use the Weight Watchers app or website to look up the nutritional values of common ingredients such as ham, beans, vegetables, and broth. You can also use a food scale or measuring cups to ensure accurate portion sizes.
Once you have all the nutritional information, you can add up the points for each ingredient based on the serving size. For example, if you’re making a ham and bean soup using dried navy beans, ham hocks, onions, carrots, and celery in chicken broth, you would add up the points for each ingredient based on their serving size.
It’s important to note that some ingredients may have zero points, such as onions and celery, while others may have higher points due to their fat or sugar content. It’s also important to consider the cooking method used, as adding oil or butter can increase the overall point value.
Healthy And Delicious Ham And Beans Recipes For Weight Watchers
If you’re looking for healthy and delicious ham and beans recipes that are also Weight Watchers friendly, we’ve got you covered! Here are two recipes that are sure to satisfy your cravings while also keeping you on track with your weight loss goals.
1. Smoked Ham Soup with White Beans
This high fiber soup is low in fat and calories, making it a perfect option for those following the Weight Watchers program. To make this soup, you’ll need:
– 1 pound dried navy beans, soaked overnight
– 1 ham bone
– 2-3 cups chopped smoked ham
– 1 cup diced onion
– 1 cup diced celery
– 1 cup diced carrots
– 1 tbsp chicken or vegetable flavor better than bouillon
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 8 cups of water
– 4-5 sprigs fresh thyme
In a slow cooker, combine all ingredients and cook on low for 8 hours. This recipe makes 8 servings, each containing about 4 WW points plus.
2. Ham and Bean Skillet
This easy one-skillet meal is a great option for a quick and satisfying dinner that won’t derail your Weight Watchers progress. To make this recipe, you’ll need:
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup diced onion
– 1 cup diced fennel
– 1 cup diced bell pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups cooked navy beans (or one can, rinsed and drained)
– 2 cups chopped smoked ham
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the onion, fennel, and bell pepper and cook until golden, about 5 minutes. Add the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds. Add the beans and ham and cook until heated through, about 2 minutes. This recipe makes 4 servings, each containing about 6 WW points plus.