Hearty Ham Casserole

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound dried split peas, picked over
• 1/2 pound dried great northern beans
• 1/2 pound frozen corn
• 1/2 pound frozen peas
• 1/2 ham steak (about 12 ounces)
• 1 onion, chopped
• 1 green bell pepper, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 celery stalk, chopped
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato paste
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Preparation Time:

30 minutes

Cooking Time:

2 hours

Cooking Difficulty:

3 (Moderate)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. In a large pot, combine the peas, beans, corn, and ham steak. Add enough water to cover the ingredients by 2 inches. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the beans are tender.
2. Drain the beans and return them to the pot. Add the onion, green pepper, red pepper, celery, tomato sauce, tomato paste, beef broth, thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour, or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
4. Transfer the casserole to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
5. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 400
• Fat: 15 grams
• Protein: 25 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Fiber: 10 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Hearty and filling
• Flavorful and comforting
• Perfect for a cold winter day
• Easy to make and customizable

User Comments:

• "This casserole is absolutely delicious! It's so hearty and filling, and the flavors are amazing."
• "I love that this casserole is so easy to make. I can just throw everything in a pot and let it simmer."
• "This is my favorite casserole recipe. I make it all the time, and it's always a hit."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have time to simmer the beans overnight, you can quick-soak them by boiling them for 2 minutes, then letting them soak in hot water for 1 hour.
• If you don't have ham steak, you can use diced ham instead.
• You can add other vegetables to this casserole, such as carrots, potatoes, or zucchini.
• This casserole can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve.