Why You’ll Love This Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach Recipe
You’ll absolutely love this Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach recipe for a few reasons.
First, it’s a total time-saver! I can have a hearty, nutritious meal ready in under an hour. The combination of ham and beans creates a rich, satisfying flavor that warms you up from the inside out.
Plus, the addition of spinach boosts the dish’s nutritional value, making it a great choice for any day of the week.
You’ll appreciate how easy it’s to make and how little cleanup is required.
Trust me, this is comfort food at its finest!
Ingredients of Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach
When it comes to cooking with a pressure cooker, the ingredients you choose can make all the difference. For this Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach recipe, you’ll want to gather a few essential items that not only contribute to the flavor but also make the cooking process super easy. Trust me, this dish is perfect for those chilly nights when all you want is something warm and comforting.
So, let’s explore what you’ll need to whip up this delightful meal.
Here’s a handy list of ingredients for your Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach:
- 1 lb dried great northern beans
- 8 cups water
- 1 lb ham, cut into bite-sized chunks
- 2 teaspoons onion powder
- 1/2 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
Now, let’s chat about these ingredients a bit. You might be wondering why we’re using dried beans instead of canned ones. Well, dried beans have this amazing ability to soak up flavors and become perfectly tender after cooking, which is something canned beans just can’t quite achieve.
Plus, there’s a certain satisfaction in cooking them from scratch, right? And don’t fret if you don’t have fresh spinach on hand; the frozen stuff works like a charm and saves you the hassle of washing and chopping.
Just remember to give everything a good stir before serving to make sure those flavors are all cozy together. Who knew a little bit of ham, beans, and spinach could bring such joy?
How to Make Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach
Alright, let’s plunge into the magic of making Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach. First things first, you’ll want to grab 1 pound of those lovely dried great northern beans and give them a good wash and sort. You know, just to make sure there are no pesky little stones or anything hiding in there.
Once you’ve got your beans all clean, toss them into your pressure cooker along with 8 cups of water. This is where the fun begins, as that water will help your beans soften up beautifully.
Now, let’s add some flavor to the mix. Take that 1 pound of ham and cut it into bite-sized chunks. You can use any ham you have on hand; it doesn’t have to be fancy. Toss the ham into the pot, along with 2 teaspoons of onion powder, 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder, and those aromatic dried bay leaves.
And don’t forget that pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you’re up for a little kick. It’s like giving your dish a warm hug with a little spice. Now, set your pressure cooker to HIGH pressure and let it work its magic for about 20 to 25 minutes. Honestly, it feels like a little cooking wizardry, doesn’t it?
Once your timer goes off, prepare yourself for the quick release method to let out that steam—careful now, don’t get a steam burn. Once the pressure is released, give everything a good stir and then add in a 10-ounce package of frozen chopped spinach and a dash of nutmeg.
Stir it all together and let the spinach heat through—trust me, it’s the finishing touch that makes this dish sing. If your pressure cooker has a Keep Warm setting, you can leave it on until you’re ready to serve.
Pair this hearty dish with some crusty bread or cornbread, and you’ve got yourself a meal that warms your heart and fills your belly. Who knew such simple ingredients could create something so comforting?
Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach Substitutions & Variations
While the classic Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach is delicious as is, there are plenty of substitutions and variations you can try to make it your own.
For a vegetarian twist, swap the ham for smoked tempeh or mushrooms. You can also use different beans like black beans or pinto beans for a change in flavor.
If you’re not a fan of spinach, kale or collard greens work great too. Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or cumin for added depth.
Don’t hesitate to throw in some diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color!
What to Serve with Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans With Spinach
Serving Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach is a delightfully hearty experience, and pairing it with the right accompaniments can elevate the meal even further.
I love serving it with crusty bread or warm cornbread, which perfectly complements the dish’s flavors. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette adds a revitalizing contrast.
If you’re in the mood for a bit more indulgence, a side of creamy coleslaw can round out the meal beautifully.
Don’t forget a glass of iced tea or a light white wine to sip while enjoying this comforting dish. Your taste buds will thank you!
Additional Tips & Notes
To guarantee your Pressure Cooker Ham and Beans with Spinach turns out perfectly, I’ve picked up a few helpful tips along the way.
First, make sure to sort and rinse your beans thoroughly; this helps eliminate any debris.
If you prefer a richer flavor, try adding a splash of apple cider vinegar before serving.
Don’t hesitate to adjust the spices to suit your taste – I love a bit more crushed red pepper!
Finally, letting the dish sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Enjoy with crusty bread for a comforting meal!