Ham and Beans Dish

Ingredients and Weight:

• Ham: 500 grams (about 1 pound)
• Beans: 2 cups (dry, pre-measured)
• Chicken broth: 2 cups
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced
• Onion: 1 medium, diced
• Thyme: 1 teaspoon, dried
• Salt and pepper: to taste
• Butter: 2 tablespoons

Preparation Time:

• Preparation: 20 minutes
• Cooking: 1 hour
• Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes

Difficulty Level:

Level 3 (Moderate difficulty)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Sort and wash beans, then soak in water for at least 2 hours or overnight.
2. Preheat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit.
3. In a large pot, bring chicken broth to a boil. Add soaked beans, garlic, onion, and thyme.
4. Cover and cook for about 45 minutes, or until beans are tender.
5. In the meantime, dice the ham into small pieces.
6. Add ham pieces to the pot and continue cooking for another 15 minutes.
7. Season with salt and pepper, then stir in butter.
8. Transfer to an oven-safe dish and bake for 20 minutes to enhance flavors.
9. Serve hot with desired side dishes.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: Approx. 450 per serving (based on US dietary guidelines)
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 30g
• Fiber: 8g (Based on estimated values and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.)

Dish Characteristics:

• This dish combines the classic flavors of ham and beans, creating a hearty and comforting meal.
• The dish has a rich, creamy texture with the ham adding a savory element.
• It is filling and can be paired with various side dishes like green vegetables or mashed potatoes.

User Comments:

1. "Love the combination of ham and beans! This dish is a great American classic."
2. "The dish was well-seasoned and the ham added a nice touch of flavor."
3. "The texture of the beans was perfect, not too soft or hard."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Soaking the beans is crucial for proper cooking and texture.
• Use low-sodium chicken broth to control the saltiness of the dish.
• Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences.
• Opt for low-fat options like lean ham or non-butter cooking spray to reduce fat content if desired.