Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach: A Weeknight Staple

Beans and ham. It’s a combination that sings of comfort, simplicity, and resourcefulness. I remember my grandmother, a woman who could stretch a dollar further than anyone I knew, always had a pot of beans simmering on the stove. Often, it was navy beans with a ham hock, infusing the creamy broth with smoky depth. The aroma alone was enough to make your stomach rumble. This pressure cooker version, while a little quicker, captures that same spirit of home-cooked goodness – and adding spinach? A brilliant, healthy twist!

Recipe Overview

• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Servings: 8
• Yield: 8 cups
• Dietary Type: Gluten-Free

Ingredients

• 1 lb dried great northern beans
• 8 cups water
• 1 lb ham, cut into bite-sized chunks
• 2 teaspoons onion powder
• ½ teaspoon garlic powder
• 2 dried bay leaves
• 1 pinch crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 (10 ounce) package frozen chopped spinach
• 1 dash nutmeg
• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

Equipment Needed

• Pressure Cooker (Digital recommended)

Instructions

1. Begin by thoroughly washing and sorting the dried great northern beans. This removes any small stones or debris that may have found their way into the bag.

2. Add the washed and sorted beans to the pressure cooker, along with the 8 cups of water.

3. Cut the ham into bite-sized chunks. This ensures even cooking and makes it easier to eat. Add the ham to the pressure cooker.

4. Add all the seasonings: 2 teaspoons of onion powder, ½ teaspoon of garlic powder, 2 dried bay leaves, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. The red pepper flakes add a touch of heat, but you can adjust the amount to your preference.

5. Close the pressure cooker lid securely, following the manufacturer’s instructions.

6. Set the pressure cooker to HIGH pressure for 20-25 minutes. The exact cooking time may vary slightly depending on your specific pressure cooker model.

7. Once the cooking time is complete, use the quick release method to release the steam. Be careful during this step, as the steam is very hot. Follow your pressure cooker’s instructions for safe steam release.

8. Once all the steam has been released and the pressure indicator has dropped, carefully open the pressure cooker.

9. Stir in the 1 (10 ounce) package of frozen chopped spinach and a dash of nutmeg.

10. Heat the mixture through until the spinach is fully heated. The residual heat of the beans should be sufficient to thaw and cook the spinach quickly.

11. Season to taste with fresh ground black pepper.

12. Serve hot, preferably with crusty bread or cornbread.

Expert Tips & Tricks

• Soaking the beans: While not strictly necessary for pressure cooking, soaking the beans for a few hours (or overnight) can help reduce cooking time and may make them easier to digest. Simply cover the beans with water and let them soak in the refrigerator. Drain and rinse them before adding them to the pressure cooker.
• Ham variations: You can use different types of ham for this recipe. A smoked ham hock will impart a deeper, smokier flavor. Diced ham steak or even leftover holiday ham will work beautifully.
• Spinach alternatives: If you don’t have frozen spinach on hand, you can use fresh spinach. Add about 5 ounces of fresh spinach to the pressure cooker after cooking, and stir until wilted.
• Spice it up: If you like a spicier dish, add more crushed red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
• Thickening the broth: If you prefer a thicker broth, you can mash some of the beans against the side of the pot with a spoon. This will release starch and thicken the liquid.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve the Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach hot, in bowls. Garnish with a dollop of sour cream or plain yogurt, a sprinkle of fresh parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil. Crusty bread, cornbread, or even a simple side salad make excellent accompaniments.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to 2-3 months. To reheat, simply microwave until heated through, or simmer on the stovetop. Add a splash of water or broth if the beans seem too dry.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	367 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	N/A	15%
Total Fat	6.2 g	9%
Saturated Fat	1.9 g	9%
Cholesterol	29.5 mg	9%
Sodium	908.7 mg	37%
Total Carbohydrate	56.3 g	18%
Dietary Fiber	19.2 g	76%
Sugars	1.6 g	N/A
Protein	28.4 g	56%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Variations & Substitutions

• Vegetarian Option: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of water. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor of ham.
• Different Beans: Feel free to experiment with different types of beans, such as navy beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust accordingly.
• Spice it Up: Add a chopped jalapeno pepper to the pressure cooker for extra heat.
• Herbs & Aromatics: Add other herbs and aromatics, such as diced carrots, celery, or fresh thyme, to deepen the flavor profile.
• Smoked Turkey: Substitute smoked turkey for the ham. This offers a leaner alternative with similar smoky flavors.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use a traditional stovetop pressure cooker for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use a stovetop pressure cooker. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for safe operation and adjust the cooking time as needed. You may need to add a bit more liquid to prevent scorching.

Q: How do I know when the beans are cooked properly?

A: The beans should be tender and easily mashed with a fork. If they are still too firm, continue cooking for a few more minutes.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Absolutely! This dish is even better the next day, as the flavors have had time to meld together. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat as needed.

Q: My beans are too watery. How can I thicken the broth?

A: Remove some of the beans and mash them with a fork or spoon. Return the mashed beans to the pot and stir to thicken the broth. Alternatively, you can simmer the beans uncovered for a few minutes to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

Q: Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

A: Yes, feel free to add other vegetables such as diced carrots, celery, or potatoes. Add them to the pressure cooker along with the beans and ham.

Final Thoughts

This Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach is more than just a quick and easy meal – it’s a taste of comfort, a nod to resourcefulness, and a delicious way to nourish yourself and your family. I encourage you to try this recipe, personalize it with your favorite ingredients, and share the warmth and flavor with those you love. Don’t hesitate to experiment with variations, and please share your feedback! This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad and a glass of crisp white wine or a hearty red ale. Enjoy!