Northern beans are a staple in Southern cuisine, often used in hearty and comforting dishes such as stews, casseroles, and soups. These versatile beans are not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making them a popular choice for healthy and budget-friendly meals. In this article, we will explore the history of northern beans in the South and share a delicious and easy-to-follow recipe that will have you craving more. So, let's dive into the world of northern beans and discover the perfect southern recipe to satisfy your taste buds.
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onion, Bacon Pieces, Roasted Red Pepper, Cider
What’s a better side dish for your beer can chicken than some delicious homemade baked beans? This recipe is a family favorite, passed down from generation to generation. The secret? Slow cooking the beans with bacon and a touch of molasses for that perfect sweet and savory flavor. Trust us, you’ll never go back to canned baked beans after trying this recipe!
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White Chicken Chili
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Small Yellow Onion, Garlic, Low Sodium
This creamy and flavorful white chicken chili is the perfect accompaniment to your beer can chicken. Made with tender chunks of chicken breast, white beans, and a blend of spices, this dish is sure to warm you up on a chilly evening. Top it off with some shredded cheese and a dollop of sour cream for a truly indulgent experience.
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Mom's White Chicken Chili
Main Ingredients: Great Northern Beans, Diced Green Chiles, Butter, White
Another take on the classic white chicken chili, this recipe has been passed down from generation to generation in many families. The addition of green chilies gives this dish a slight kick, while the corn adds a touch of sweetness. Serve it with some warm tortilla chips for a satisfying crunch.
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Classic Ham & Bean Soup
Main Ingredients: Great Northern Beans, Water, Beans, Chicken Stock, Ham
A classic and comforting soup that pairs perfectly with your beer can chicken. Made with tender chunks of ham, hearty white beans, and a blend of herbs and spices, this soup is a crowd pleaser. Serve it with some warm crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
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Award Winning White Chicken Chili
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Great Northern Beans, Salsa, Chicken Broth
Looking for a chili recipe that will impress your friends and family? Look no further! This award-winning white chicken chili is packed with flavor, thanks to a combination of spices and a touch of hot sauce. It’s the perfect balance of creamy and spicy, making it a hit at any gathering.
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Crock Pot Great Northern Beans - Southern Style
Main Ingredients: Dry Great Northern Beans, Water, Ham Hock, Salt, Black
If you’re a fan of slow cooker recipes, you’ll love this southern-style white bean dish. Made with tender chunks of ham hock, onions, and a blend of herbs and spices, this dish is full of flavor. Let it cook all day in your crockpot and come home to a delicious and hearty meal.
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Loaded Vegan Chili
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Medium Onion, Green Pepper, Garlic
If you’re looking for a vegan option to serve alongside your beer can chicken, this loaded chili is a must-try. Packed with vegetables like bell peppers, corn, and tomatoes, this chili is full of flavor and texture. Plus, it’s topped with some crunchy tortilla strips for an extra kick.
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White Chicken Chili Soup
Main Ingredients: Chicken Broth, Chicken, Diced Green Chilies, Cumin
Another twist on the classic white chicken chili, this soup is perfect for those chilly nights when you want something warm and comforting. Made with coconut milk for a touch of creaminess and a blend of spices for flavor, this soup is sure to become a family favorite.
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Crock Pot Northern Beans & Ham
Main Ingredients: Northern Beans, Ham Hock, Small Onion, Water, Beans
Another easy and delicious crockpot recipe, this dish is perfect for a busy weeknight. Simply throw everything in the slow cooker and let it do the work for you. The combination of ham, beans, and potatoes makes for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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White Bean and Ham Soup
Main Ingredients: Great Northern Beans, Olive Oil, Sweet Onion, Celery
This soup is the perfect way to use up any leftover ham from your beer can chicken dinner. Made with white beans, carrots, and celery, this soup is packed with nutrients and flavor. Plus, it’s easy to make and can be ready in under an hour.
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Creamy White Chicken Chili with Cream Cheese
Main Ingredients: Onions, Minced Garlic, Lime Juice, Olive Oil, Cooked
If you’re a fan of creamy dishes, you’ll love this white chicken chili made with cream cheese. The cream cheese adds a rich and velvety texture to the dish, while the spices and chicken broth add tons of flavor. Serve it with some warm crusty bread for dipping.
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Easy Minestrone Soup
Main Ingredients: Extra Virgin Olive Oil, Small Onion, Garlic, Large
This hearty and flavorful soup is the perfect side dish for your beer can chicken. Packed with vegetables like carrots, celery, and beans, this soup is a meal in itself. Top it off with some parmesan cheese and serve it with some warm garlic bread for a complete meal.
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Classic Chili
Main Ingredients: Ground Meat, Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Green Bell
You can’t go wrong with a classic chili recipe. Made with ground beef, beans, and a blend of spices, this dish is a crowd favorite. Make a large batch and freeze the leftovers for an easy weeknight meal.
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Olive Garden Pasta e Fagioli
Main Ingredients: Ditalini Pasta, Olive Oil, Sausage Casing, Garlic
If you’re a fan of Olive Garden’s famous Pasta e Fagioli soup, you’ll love this homemade version. Made with ground beef, beans, and pasta, this soup is full of flavor and texture. Top it off with some fresh parsley and parmesan cheese for an authentic Italian touch.
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Crockpot Chicken Chili
Main Ingredients: Chicken Breasts, Salsa, Black Beans, Northern Beans
Another easy and delicious crockpot recipe, this chicken chili is a great option for those busy weeknights. Packed with chicken, beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to warm you up on a cold evening. Plus, it’s so easy to make, you’ll want to add it to your regular dinner rotation.
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Southern Cornbread – Southern Skillet Cornbread
Main Ingredients: Butter, Yellow Cornmeal, Flour, Baking Soda, Salt
What’s a better side dish for your beer can chicken than some classic southern cornbread? This recipe is made in a skillet for that perfect crispy crust and soft, fluffy center. Serve it warm with some honey butter for a truly indulgent experience.
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Creamy Crockpot White Chicken Chili
Main Ingredients: Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts, Yellow Onion
Another creamy and delicious white chicken chili recipe, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in. Made with chicken, white beans, and a blend of spices, this chili is sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with some warm cornbread for the ultimate comfort meal.
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Homemade Bean and Bacon Soup
Main Ingredients: Cherry, Smoked Bacon, Yellow Onions, Carrots, Diced
This hearty and delicious soup is perfect for a cold winter day. Made with bacon, white beans, and a touch of red wine vinegar, this soup is full of flavor. It’s also a great way to use up any leftover bacon from your beer can chicken recipe!
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Pasta Fagioli Soup
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Carrots, Celery Ribs, Garlic Cloves
This classic Italian soup is a perfect side dish for your beer can chicken dinner. Made with ground beef, beans, and pasta, this soup is hearty and filling. Serve it with some warm crusty bread for a complete meal.
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Baked Beans From Scratch
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Onion, Garlic, Great Northern Beans, Water
If you’re looking to step up your baked beans game, this from-scratch recipe is a must-try. Made with navy beans, bacon, and a touch of maple syrup, these baked beans are full of flavor and the perfect side for your beer can chicken. Plus, they’re so easy to make, you’ll never go back to canned beans again.
Why are Northern Beans a Southern Favorite?
Northern beans, also known as navy beans, are small, oval-shaped beans that originated in Peru and were brought to Europe by Spanish explorers. They made their way to the United States in the 19th century and quickly became a staple in Southern cuisine due to their affordability, versatility, and nutritional value. These beans are a rich source of protein, fiber, and essential vitamins and minerals, making them a popular choice for a healthy and well-rounded diet. They are also easy to prepare and can be cooked in a variety of ways, making them a go-to ingredient for busy Southern cooks.
The Perfect Northern Bean Recipe for Southerners
Now that we know the history and benefits of northern beans, it's time to put them to use in a delicious and traditional Southern recipe. Our featured dish is a classic northern bean and ham stew that is guaranteed to warm your soul and satisfy your taste buds. To make this dish, you will need navy beans, ham hocks, onions, celery, carrots, garlic, and a few herbs and spices to add flavor. The key to a flavorful stew is to soak the beans overnight, which will not only reduce cooking time but also make them easier to digest. Once the beans are soaked, simply sauté the vegetables, add in the ham hocks and beans, and let it all simmer until the beans are tender and the flavors are fully developed. The result is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a chilly Southern evening.
In conclusion, northern beans have become a beloved ingredient in Southern cuisine for their taste, versatility, and health benefits. They have a rich history and have been a part of Southern cooking for centuries. With this easy and delicious stew recipe, you can bring the flavors of the South into your own kitchen and enjoy a hearty and nutritious meal. So, the next time you're looking for a flavorful and budget-friendly dish, remember to reach for a bag of northern beans and let their deliciousness speak for itself.
