The warm, comforting flavors of a hearty stew are a staple in many Southern homes. One particular recipe that stands out is the Southern bean stew. This delicious dish is packed with protein and earthy flavors that will leave you feeling satisfied and nourished. Not only is it easy to make, but it also uses simple and affordable ingredients that you may already have in your pantry. So, let's dive into this classic Southern bean stew recipe and learn how to make it for yourself.
Hopping John Soup (Black-eyed Pea, Ham, and Collard...
Main Ingredients: Onion, Celery, Olive Oil, Minced Garlic, Ham, Homemade
Hopping John Soup, also known as "good luck" soup, is a traditional Southern dish that is perfect for New Year's Day or any cold winter night. This hearty soup is made with black-eyed peas, ham, and collard greens, and is said to bring good luck and prosperity in the coming year. The flavors of the peas and ham simmered in a rich broth with the addition of collard greens make for a comforting and delicious meal.
Black-eyed peas are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often enjoyed on New Year's Day for good luck. This simple recipe for Southern black-eyed peas is a great way to enjoy these legumes any time of the year. The peas are cooked with bacon, onion, and garlic, and then simmered in a flavorful broth until tender. Serve them on their own or as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal.
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Southern Inspired Greens, Beans & Ham Soup
Main Ingredients: Cubed Ham, Beans, Mustard Greens, Collard Greens
This Southern-inspired soup is a delicious combination of collard greens, white beans, and ham. The collard greens add a touch of bitterness, while the beans and ham bring a hearty and savory element to the dish. This soup is perfect for a cold day and is sure to warm you up and satisfy your appetite.
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Southern Northern Beans and Smoked Turkey
Main Ingredients: Bean, Olive Oil, Onion, Green Bell Pepper, Garlic
This hearty soup is a Southern twist on the classic northern beans and ham soup. Instead of ham, smoked turkey is used to add a rich and smoky flavor to the dish. The beans are cooked with onion, garlic, and spices, and then simmered with the smoked turkey until tender. This soup is perfect for a cozy night in and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Southern Succotash Stew
Main Ingredients: Onion, Garlic, Baby Lima Beans, Vegetables, Okra, Green
Succotash is a classic Southern dish made with corn, lima beans, and other vegetables. This hearty stew takes the flavors of succotash and turns them into a delicious and satisfying meal. The stew is filled with corn, lima beans, potatoes, and other veggies, and is seasoned with herbs and spices for a burst of flavor in every bite.
Pinto beans are a staple in Southern cuisine and are often served as a side dish or used in other recipes. This simple recipe for Southern pinto beans is a great way to enjoy these legumes. The beans are cooked with onion, garlic, and spices until they are tender and flavorful. Serve them alongside your favorite Southern dishes for a delicious and comforting meal.
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Brunswick Stew
Main Ingredients: Shredded Cooked Pork, Frozen Corn Kernels, Baby Lima
Brunswick stew is a classic Southern dish that has been enjoyed for generations. This hearty stew is typically made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, and is slow-cooked to perfection. The result is a thick and flavorful stew that is perfect for a chilly day or a family gathering.
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Southern Minestrone
Main Ingredients: Lean Ground Beef, Medium Yellow Onion, Medium Carrots
This Southern twist on the classic Italian soup is a delicious and satisfying meal. The traditional vegetables and pasta are combined with Southern favorites like sweet potatoes and collard greens for a unique and flavorful twist. This soup is perfect for a cold day and is sure to become a family favorite.
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Southern Collard Green Potato Stew
Main Ingredients: Yellow Onions, Celery, Green Bell Peppers, Minced
This hearty stew is a delicious combination of collard greens, potatoes, and other vegetables. The collard greens add a touch of bitterness, while the potatoes and other veggies add a hearty and savory element to the dish. This stew is perfect for a cold day and is sure to warm you up and satisfy your appetite.
Chicken and dumplings is a classic Southern dish that is loved by many. This comforting soup is made with tender chicken, vegetables, and fluffy dumplings, all cooked in a flavorful broth. Serve it as a main course or as a side dish with your favorite Southern meal for a hearty and satisfying meal.
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Feijoada Portuguese Bean Stew
Main Ingredients: Dried Black Beans, Kosher Salt, Cooking Oil, Onion
This Portuguese-inspired bean stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is sure to warm you up on a cold day. The stew is made with a variety of beans, meats, and vegetables, and is seasoned with herbs and spices for a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it with rice and enjoy a taste of Portugal in your own home.
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Old Fashioned Brunswick Stew
Main Ingredients: Ham Bone, Water, Stewing Hen, Bay Leaves, Dried Thyme
This old-fashioned Brunswick stew is made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and seasonings for a thick and flavorful stew that is perfect for a chilly day. The stew is slow-cooked to perfection, allowing all the flavors to merge and develop. Serve it with your favorite cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
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Southern Kidney Bean and Andouille Soup
Main Ingredients: Red Kidney Beans, Smoked Ham Hock, Pork Neck Bones
This hearty soup is a delicious combination of kidney beans, Andouille sausage, and other vegetables. The spicy sausage adds a kick of flavor to the soup, while the beans and vegetables make it a satisfying and filling meal. Serve it with your favorite bread or crackers for a comforting and delicious meal.
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Slow-Cooker Southern Black-Eyed Pea Soup
Main Ingredients: Vegetable Oil, Onions, Garlic, Cajun Seasoning, Chicken
This slow-cooker soup is a great way to enjoy black-eyed peas in a hearty and satisfying meal. The beans are cooked with bacon, onion, and garlic, and then simmered in a flavorful broth until tender. The slow-cooker does all the work, making this soup an easy and delicious option for a busy day.
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Southern Kitchen – Red Beans & Rice
Main Ingredients: Red Beans, Chicken Stock, Vidalia Onion, Green Bell
This classic Southern dish is a staple in many households. Red beans and rice is a hearty and flavorful meal that is perfect for a busy weeknight. The beans are cooked with onion, garlic, and spices, and served over a bed of fluffy rice for a comforting and satisfying meal.
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Southern Black Eyed Peas with Leeks, Tomatoes (Vegan)
Main Ingredients: Leek, Minced Garlic, Dry White Wine, Salt, Ground Black
This vegan twist on the classic Southern dish is a delicious and healthy option for a comforting meal. The black-eyed peas are cooked with leeks, tomatoes, and other vegetables, and seasoned with herbs and spices for a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve it with your favorite grain for a complete and satisfying meal.
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Georgia Brunswick Stew
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Yellow Onion, Large Garlic Cloves
This Georgia-inspired Brunswick stew is a delicious and hearty meal that is sure to warm you up on a cold day. The stew is made with a combination of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, and is slow-cooked to perfection. Serve it with your favorite cornbread for a classic Southern meal.
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Gumbo
Main Ingredients: Chicken, Butter, Onions, Chopped Celery, Bell Pepper
Gumbo is a classic Louisiana dish that has become a favorite in Southern cuisine. This hearty soup is made with a variety of meats, vegetables, and seasonings, and is often served over rice for a filling and satisfying meal. The flavors of the different ingredients come together to create a delicious and comforting dish.
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The BEST Southern Pinto Beans
Main Ingredients: Pinto Beans, Chicken Stock, Water, Onion, Smoked Ham
These Southern pinto beans are slow-cooked to perfection, resulting in a dish that is full of flavor and tender beans. The beans are seasoned with onion, garlic, and spices, and can be served as a side dish or used in other recipes. Serve them with your favorite Southern dishes for a delicious and comforting meal.
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Southern Chicken and Corn Chowder
Main Ingredients: Bacon, Olive Oil, Onion, Carrots, Celery, Garlic
This creamy and flavorful chowder is a delicious and satisfying meal that is perfect for a cold day. The chicken and corn are cooked with onion, garlic, and other veggies, and then simmered in a rich and creamy broth. Serve it with your favorite bread or crackers for a comforting and delicious meal.
The Key Ingredients
When it comes to the Southern bean stew, it's all about using the right ingredients. The star of this dish is, of course, beans. You can use any type of beans you prefer, such as black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Onions and garlic are also essential for adding depth and flavor to the stew. For the base, you'll need vegetable broth or chicken broth, depending on your preference. And to give the stew its classic Southern touch, you'll need some smoked ham hock or bacon.
The Cooking Process
To start, sauté the onions and garlic in a large pot until they become translucent. Then, add in the smoked ham hock or bacon and let it cook for a few minutes until it starts to release its smoky aroma. Next, pour in the vegetable or chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add in the beans and let it simmer for about an hour until the beans are soft and tender.
Adding Flavor and Texture
While the stew is simmering, you can add in some additional ingredients to enhance the flavor and texture. Some diced carrots and celery can add a nice crunch to the stew, while tomatoes can add a touch of acidity. You can also add in some spices like paprika, cumin, and oregano for a warm and earthy flavor. And for some heat, a pinch of cayenne pepper will do the trick.
Serving Suggestions
Once the stew is done simmering, it's time to serve it up. You can enjoy it on its own or pair it with some cornbread or rice. For a complete Southern experience, top it off with some freshly chopped green onions or jalapenos. This stew also makes for a great meal prep option, as it can be stored in the fridge for a few days and reheated for a quick and satisfying meal.
In conclusion, the Southern bean stew is a classic dish that is loved for its simplicity and hearty flavors. With just a few key ingredients and some basic cooking techniques, you can easily recreate this delicious and comforting dish in the comfort of your own home. So, gather your ingredients and get cooking, and soon enough, you'll have a warm bowl of Southern goodness waiting for you.
