Are you a fan of southern cuisine? Do you love the rich, smoky flavor of ham hocks in your collard greens or pinto beans?
If so, have you ever considered canning your own pinto beans and ham to enjoy all year round? Canning is a great way to preserve your favorite foods and ensure that you always have a delicious meal on hand.
In this article, we will guide you through the process of canning pinto beans and ham, step by step. Whether you’re a seasoned canner or a beginner, this guide will help you create a satisfying and flavorful meal that will remind you of the best southern cooking.
So, grab your jars and let’s get started!
How To Can Pinto Beans And Ham?
First, it’s important to note that the USDA guidelines do not mention the smaller 1/4 liter size jar, but it is safe to use as long as it has the same processing time as the next tested size up.
Before canning, the beans must be partially rehydrated by soaking them overnight and then boiling them for 30 minutes. While the beans are boiling, chop up your veggies and ham.
Next, bring your broth to a boil and fill your jars with equal amounts of beans, ham, and carrots. Top the jars with boiling broth and bean liquid, leaving 1 inch of headspace in each jar. Remove any air bubbles and wipe the jar rims clean before placing lids and rings on top.
Once your jars are filled and sealed, place them into a pressure canner and follow the instructions for your specific model. Process quarts for 90 minutes or pints for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure (adjusting for elevation).
If you’re looking for a shortcut, you can also use a smoked ham to add flavor to your beans. Simply simmer the ham in water for 12-15 hours, debone and chop it into small pieces, and add it to your jars along with the beans.
Southern cuisine often uses smoked meats like ham hocks to add flavor to dishes like collard greens and pinto beans. Canning your own pinto beans and ham allows you to enjoy this delicious combination all year round.
Gathering Your Supplies
Before you begin canning your pinto beans and ham, it’s important to gather all the necessary supplies. You will need a pressure canner, which is a specialized type of canner that uses high pressure to safely preserve low-acid foods like beans and meats.
You will also need jars and lids that are specifically designed for pressure canning. It’s recommended to use either quart or pint size jars, depending on your preference. Make sure to check the jars for any cracks or chips before using them, as these imperfections can cause them to break during processing.
In addition to jars and lids, you will need a variety of other tools and equipment. A large pot for boiling the beans and a separate pot for preparing the broth are essential. You’ll also need a ladle, funnel, and jar lifter for filling and removing the jars from the canner.
It’s important to follow proper hygiene practices while canning, so make sure to have plenty of clean towels and hot, soapy water on hand for washing your hands and wiping down surfaces. And don’t forget to wear heat-resistant gloves or mitts when handling hot jars!
By gathering all of your supplies ahead of time, you’ll be able to streamline the canning process and ensure that everything runs smoothly. So set aside some time to prepare your equipment before you start canning those delicious pinto beans and ham!
Prepping Your Beans And Ham
To begin prepping your beans and ham for canning, start by soaking the dried pinto beans overnight. You can do this by either long-soaking them in water or quick-soaking them by boiling them for 2 minutes and then letting them stand for an hour. Once the beans have soaked, drain and discard the soaking water.
Next, put the partially rehydrated beans in a pot, cover with fresh water, and boil for 30 minutes. While the beans are boiling, chop up your veggies and ham into small pieces.
If you’re using a smoked ham to add flavor to your beans, simmer it in water for 12-15 hours before deboning and chopping it into small pieces. Then, add the ham pieces to your jars along with the beans and carrots.
Once your jars are filled with equal amounts of beans, ham, and carrots, top them with boiling broth and bean liquid, leaving 1 inch of headspace in each jar. Remove any air bubbles and wipe the jar rims clean before placing lids and rings on top.
Finally, place your filled and sealed jars into a pressure canner and follow the instructions for your specific model. Process quarts for 90 minutes or pints for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure (adjusting for elevation).
By following these steps, you can enjoy delicious canned pinto beans and ham all year round.
Filling Your Jars
When filling your jars with pinto beans and ham, it’s important to leave 1 inch of headspace to allow for expansion during the canning process. Start by adding equal amounts of beans, ham, and carrots to each jar.
Next, pour boiling broth and bean liquid over the ingredients in the jar, making sure to leave 1 inch of headspace at the top. Use a butter knife or lid lifter to move the beans around and release any air bubbles.
After filling your jars, wipe the rims clean with a damp rag to ensure a proper seal. Place lids and rings on top, tightening the rings only until you feel resistance between the ring and the jar.
Once all of your jars are filled and sealed, place them into a pressure canner and follow the instructions for your specific model. Process quarts for 90 minutes or pints for 75 minutes at 10 pounds of pressure (adjusting for elevation).
After processing, remove the jars from the canner and place them on a towel folded in thirds to cool down slowly. Leave them for at least 12 hours before checking the seals and moving them to your pantry.
Enjoy your homemade pinto beans and ham as a side dish or as a main meal with some cornbread and greens. Canning your own food allows you to have delicious, healthy meals all year round while also saving money and reducing waste.
Processing Your Jars
Processing your jars is an important step in canning pinto beans and ham. After filling your jars with the bean mixture, it’s time to process them in a pressure canner.
Start by placing the lid on the canner and allowing steam to vent for ten minutes. This step is crucial as it helps the contents of the jar to reach the correct temperature.
Next, process your beans at 10 pounds of pressure for 50 minutes (adjusting for elevation). Once the processing time is up, remove heat and allow the canner to cool down on its own. When the pressure is reduced, remove the lid but leave the jars in the canner for about 10 minutes.
After 10 minutes, carefully remove the jars from the canner using a jar lifter and place them on a towel folded in thirds. Leave them for at least 12 hours before checking the seals and moving them to your pantry.
It’s important to note that quart jars require 5 pounds of dried beans to make 7 quarts of canned beans. Make sure to adjust processing times based on elevation and jar size.
By following these steps, you can safely and deliciously can your own pinto beans and ham to enjoy all year round.
Storing Your Canned Pinto Beans And Ham
Once you have successfully canned your pinto beans and ham, it is important to store them properly to ensure their quality and safety. Home-canned beans should last up to 12-18 months in the pantry if they are properly canned and sealed.
To store your canned pinto beans and ham, remove the canning bands from the sealed jars and clean off any residue from the outside of the jars. Store the jars in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. It is important to check the jars periodically for any signs of spoilage, such as bulging lids, leaks, or unusual odors.
If you find any unsealed jars or suspect that a jar has spoiled, do not consume the contents. Instead, discard the contents and sanitize the jar before reusing it. It is also recommended to label your jars with the date that they were canned so that you can keep track of their age and use them in a timely manner.
Canned pinto beans and ham make for a delicious and convenient meal option that can be enjoyed all year round. By following proper canning and storage techniques, you can ensure that your homemade pinto beans and ham are safe, flavorful, and long-lasting.
Using Your Canned Pinto Beans And Ham In Recipes
Now that you have your delicious canned pinto beans and ham, it’s time to start cooking! Here are a few recipe ideas to get you started:
1. Southern-style Pinto Beans and Ham: In a large pot, sauté onions, garlic, and celery until soft. Add your canned pinto beans and ham, along with some chicken broth and a bay leaf. Simmer for 30 minutes, then serve with cornbread.
2. Pinto Bean and Ham Soup: In a large pot, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add your canned pinto beans and ham, along with some diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and your favorite seasonings (like cumin or chili powder). Simmer for an hour or so, then serve with crusty bread.
3. Ham and Bean Casserole: In a baking dish, layer sliced potatoes, canned pinto beans and ham, and sliced carrots. Top with a mixture of cream of mushroom soup and chicken broth, then bake in the oven for an hour or until the potatoes are tender.
4. Ham and Bean Salad: In a large bowl, combine your canned pinto beans and ham with some chopped veggies (like bell peppers or cucumbers), crumbled feta cheese, and a vinaigrette dressing. Serve chilled as a refreshing summer salad.
No matter how you use your canned pinto beans and ham, they’re sure to add delicious flavor to any dish. Plus, since they’re already cooked and ready to go, they make meal prep a breeze!
