How To Make The Best Instant Pot White Beans with Ham Hocks Recipe

This easy one-pot meal is for you! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a delicious and hearty ham and bean soup on the table in no time. Plus, it's perfect for those busy nights when you don't have time to cook.

In the soulful spirit of a classic soul music singer, let me take you on a journey to the heart of comfort and flavor with a recipe that echoes the timeless warmth of your favorite crooner. Picture this: a humble yet soul-satisfying dish of ham and beans, crafted in the Instant Pot in under an hour.

As we dive into the world of Southern kitchens and savory melodies, imagine the dried beans, soaked overnight in anticipation, joining forces with succulent ham to create a symphony of flavors that could make even the toughest of times seem a little gentler.

This isn't just a recipe; it's a culinary ballad, where the rhythms of an Instant Pot meet the velvety tones of soaked beans, harmonizing to deliver a dish that resonates with soul and simplicity. In the spirit of the Womacks, let's cook up a melody of comfort and heartiness that speaks to the soul.

Related Posts:

• Southern Pinto Beans with Ground Beef
• Navy Beans and Ham
• Southern Black-eyed Peas

Everything cooks in the Instant Pot, so there's hardly any cleanup involved. Give this ham and beans recipe a try tonight!

This instant pot bean soup recipe is major comfort in less than 30 minutes! Hearty enough to be a main dish stew but versatile enough for a Southern side dish.

This delicious and easy ham and beans stew is the perfect comfort food for a cold winter day. Plus, it's a great way to use up any leftover ham from Thanksgiving. Enjoy!

Many of you have asked me for Instant pot recipes, so here you have it. This is my first one, as I broke in my new Christmas present with this bean and ham hock recipe.

The recipe is basically a converted traditional stovetop recipe, so if you don’t have an Instant Pot, no problem as the directions are basically the same and transferrable.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with Beans and Ham)

During my Chicago years, hearty comforting stews and soups got me through those long winters as well as great soul and classic r&b music like Womack and Womack’s “Baby I’m Scared Of You” which would make any Chicago soul music playlist.

The song creates a perfect harmony with the Ham Hock and Beans Instant Pot recipe, transcending the boundaries of music and culinary art. The song's sultry vocals and passionate lyrics echo the warmth and depth found in the slow-cooked tenderness of ham hock and the robust flavors of beans.

As the soulful melodies envelop the kitchen, the Instant Pot works its magic, infusing the air with the enticing aroma of simmering beans and savory ham. The rhythmic beats of the song seem to synchronize with the gentle whirring of the Instant Pot, creating an atmosphere that resonates with both soulful music and the anticipation of a delicious meal.

The lyrics, expressing vulnerability and passion, align with the heartiness and richness of the dish. Each note of the song seems to enhance the layers of flavor developing in the Instant Pot – the smokiness of the ham hock, the earthiness of the beans, and the infusion of spices coming together in a culinary crescendo.

Just as the song evokes emotions and connections, the Ham Hock and Beans dish invites diners to savor the comforting and soulful essence of home-cooked goodness.

The pairing creates a multisensory experience, where the music and the aroma of the dish intertwine, elevating both the auditory and gustatory senses. It's a symphony for the soul, where every lyric and every bite tells a story of passion, warmth, and a shared appreciation for the finer things in life.

I ain’t saying I was scared, but admittedly I was surprised by how simple it was to use as well as the intense flavor it produced. I guess my old school pressure cooker may now be a relic, marginalized by innovation.

This Instant Pot ham and beans stew recipe is my take on a typical Provencal soup/beans recipe which features ingredients like ham, fresh herbs, and a medley of vegetables.

I simply remixed it soul food style by substituting ingredients common in soul food dishes like okra and ham hocks to accompany the white beans.

Ingredients Needed To Make Pressure Cooker Beans Soup

• Extra virgin olive oil
• Smoked ham hocks, Ham Shanks, salt pork, or leftover ham. I prefer hocks, but salt pork may be more accessible
• Red onion
• Whole okra pods - adds a unique and delicious twist, bringing a touch of Southern charm and a hint of earthiness to the dish. The okra's distinct flavor and texture contribute to the overall richness of the meal.
• Garlic cloves or garlic powder - imparts a savory and earthy flavor to the dish, elevating the overall richness.
• Carrots - In a ham and beans recipe, where the ham provides rich and savory flavors, carrots act as a balancing component. Their slightly sweet and earthy taste helps offset the saltiness of the ham, resulting in a more well-rounded and harmonious dish.
• White wine - White wine introduces a gentle acidity to the dish, brightening the flavors and balancing the richness of the ham. This acidity can cut through the heaviness of the meat, providing a refreshing and palate-cleansing element. Opt for a dry white wine rather than a sweet one. Dry white wines, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, are better suited for savory dishes.
• Vegetable or chicken stock - consider choosing a low-sodium version chicken broth to have better control over the overall salt content of the dish. Alternatively, you can use homemade vegetable stock for a more customized flavor.
• Water
• Fresh thyme - The bright and slightly citrusy notes in fresh thyme help cut through the richness of the ham, providing a refreshing contrast.
• Dried Beans - white beans like Cannellini beans, navy beans, or great northern beans are preferred but other beans like red beans or pinto beans can work. Just use dried vs canned beans
• Smoked Paprika - contributes earthy and slightly sweet undertones that complement the savory notes of the ham.
• Allspice - Allspice is named for its ability to mimic the flavors of cinnamon, nutmeg, and cloves, creating a complex spice blend within a single ingredient. This complexity adds depth and richness to the overall flavor profile of the ham and beans.
• Kosher salt
• Black pepper
• Bay leaf - contribute a subtle earthiness to the flavor profile. This earthy quality complements the savory notes of the ham, creating a more complex and well-rounded taste.
• Red Pepper flakes (optional)

I went light on the broth (wine and vegetable stock) as I wanted more of a thicker bean dish vs. more soupy. This lends some itself to the white beans and vegetables really sticking out and being the hero.

However, if you prefer more of a soup consistency increasing the broth ingredients levels and cooking longer/slower gets you there.

Many Provencal soup recipes call for bacon, but since I had some smoked ham hocks on hand I used them. The smokiness added an additional layer of delicious flavor to go with the strong thyme essence and sweetness provided by the wine.

How To Make Instant Pot Ham and Beans Soup?

Step 1: Saute vegetables

Heat the instant pot on "high" saute settings (equivalent of medium heat on stovetop). Add olive oil once the display reads "hot." Add the olive oil and then saute the vegetables (onions, carrots, garlic) 1-2 minutes stirring occasionally. I add carrots and onions first then the garlic for the last 30 seconds of cooking. Add the okra and cook another 30 seconds.

Step 2: Season the Vegetables

While the vegetables saute add half the dry seasonings. Saute another minute, just long enough for the flavors to be released as a result of the heat.

Step 3: Pressure Cook Beans

Add the remaining ingredients including the reserved dry spice seasonings, smoked ham hock, and bay leaves. Give everything a big stir. Cancel "saute" and close the lid. Pressure cook on high pressure for 40 minutes and then use the natural release pressure method for 20 minutes.

Turn the valve to venting. Unlock and remove lid carefully. Remove ham hocks with tongs. Discard skin, bones and cartilage, then chop into smaller pieces. Add the chopped ham back to the beans and stir well.

Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Bam! Just like that you have a one pot hearty meal for a cold day comfort dish or holiday dinner.

For thicker consistency reduce the amount of liquids.

Serving Suggestions

This hearty soup is quite filling and probably only lacking some corn bread to sop up all the residue goodness left behind in your bowl. A good buttermilk cornbread or biscuit would be great! Or even some classic Southern hot water cornbread. Top the ham and bean soup with chopped fresh parsley.

What else to serve with beans and ham

When serving ham and beans, consider complementing the hearty and savory flavors of the dish with sides that add variety and balance. Here are some delicious options:

1. Cornbread: A classic choice that pairs well with the flavors of ham and beans. The slightly sweet and crumbly texture of cornbread complements the richness of the dish.
2. Rice: Serve the ham and beans over steamed white or brown rice. The rice provides a neutral base that absorbs the flavorful juices of the dish.
3. Collard Greens: Cooked collard greens add a nutritious and slightly bitter element that contrasts with the richness of ham and beans. Consider preparing them with bacon for added flavor.
4. Coleslaw: The crisp and tangy nature of coleslaw provides a refreshing contrast to the heartiness of ham and beans. Choose a vinegar-based coleslaw for a lighter touch.
5. Potato Salad: Creamy and flavorful potato salad is a versatile side that complements the meal. The combination of textures works well with the beans and ham.
6. Biscuits: Flaky and buttery biscuits are another excellent choice, offering a delightful accompaniment to the savory ham and beans.
7. Sauteed Greens: Spinach, kale, or Swiss chard sautéed with garlic and olive oil add a vibrant and nutritious side to balance the meal.
8. Pickled Vegetables: Pickled cucumbers, onions, or mixed vegetables can provide a tangy and crunchy element to cut through the richness of the dish.
9. Macaroni and Cheese: The creamy and cheesy goodness of macaroni and cheese complements the savory flavors of ham and beans.
10. Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of crusty bread or a baguette for a simple and satisfying way to mop up the delicious juices.

Substitutions and Variations

Here are some substitutions and variations you can try for a ham hock and bean Instant Pot recipe:

1. Substitute Ham Hocks:
   • Smoked Turkey Legs: These will impart a similar smoky flavor to the dish.
   • Bacon or Pancetta: Use chopped bacon or pancetta for a rich, savory taste.
   • Smoked Sausage: Adds a different texture and flavor profile to the dish.
   • Vegetarian Options: Smoked tofu or tempeh can provide a smoky element without meat.
2. Bean Varieties:
   • Navy Beans: Traditional choice for ham and bean soup, creamy and mild.
   • Great Northern Beans: Similar to navy beans but slightly larger, work well in soups.
   • Black Beans: Adds a different color and flavor dimension to the dish.
   • Kidney Beans: Larger beans with a slightly firmer texture.
3. Vegetable Additions:
   • Carrots: Adds sweetness and color.
   • Celery: Provides a savory base flavor.
   • Bell Peppers: Adds a pop of color and sweetness.
   • Spinach or Kale: Stir in some greens at the end for added nutrition.
4. Herbs and Spices:
   • Thyme, Rosemary, or Bay Leaves: Classic herbs for soups and stews.
   • Smoked Paprika: Enhances the smoky flavor.
   • Cumin or Chili Powder: Adds a hint of warmth and depth.
   • Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a bit of heat. If it becomes too hot you can balance with a sweetner like brown sugar
5. Liquid Base:
   • Chicken or Vegetable Broth: Adds depth of flavor.
   • Beer or Wine: Adds complexity to the dish.
   • Tomato Sauce or Diced Tomatoes: Adds acidity and richness.
6. Finishing Touches:
   • Lemon or Lime Juice: Adds a bright, citrusy note at the end.
   • Fresh Herbs: Parsley, cilantro, or chives for garnish.
   • Grated Parmesan or Cheddar Cheese: Sprinkle on top before serving for extra richness.

Ways to Maximize Flavor with Instant Pot Beans

Saute the vegetables first to release the flavors

Add spices to the saute, as heat brings out their flavor more

Cook the smoked ham hock whole, in big chunks or as diced ham and then after the dish is done, remove, cut into pieces and add back to the pot

Have bread on hand as you’ll want to sop up any and all remains

This bean soup recipe is based on using dry beans regardless of the type of bean you use in the recipe.

Leftover ham bone is great in place of ham hocks. There is so much flavor around that meaty ham bone. So keep this in mind when you're trying to figure out what to do with that holiday smoky ham.

Make sure you use enough water. You'll need about 2 cups of water to combine with the white wine and cups of chicken broth.

Don't get crazy with the spices. The flavors of the ham will provide so much depth, complexity, and richness.

Reduce the broth to your desired consistency by continuing to cook with the saute mode.

Leftovers of this delicious soup get better the next day. These tender beans absorb all that flavor and maintain for a couple of days.

Reserve some of that flavorful broth for additional later use. I like to use it with rice or mashed potatoes.

This recipe can easily be converted to crock pot, slow cooker, or stove top. If using a crock pot you'll still want to saute the vegetables in a skillet beofre adding to the slow cooker.

I get that crock pot is pretty convenient, however, pressure cooking beans is the best way to enjoy them. You get perfectly tender beans and great flavor! Furthermore, pressure cooking is just as convenient in terms of being hands-free cooking.

Ham and Beans Soup Frequently Asked Questions

do i need to soak the beans?

Technically you don't have to let the beans soak, but I always do an overnight soak or occasionally use the quick soak method. I soak beans for instant pot recipes out of habit.

does this recipe work with other vegetables?

This is actually a base go-to recipe for me cause of its versatility. It works with a variety of different vegetables so depending on the season you can change things up to your liking. I’ve made this dish with other soul food staples like turnips, artichokes, sweet potatoes, etc.

can i use a different type of bean?

Black-eyed peas and pinto beans also make perfectly good substitutes for white beans in this recipe. Note, white beans do have their advantages and there are a few different varieties to choose from. But if you’re looking for a black-eyed peas recipe to cook for New Year’s just swap out the white beans.

• They absorb flavors extremely well so anything (herbs, wine, bacon, etc.) they get paired with gets pulled in
• They also break down pretty quickly when cooking which releases their creaminess in the form of starches right into the body of the soup

what about the okra, is it slimy?

Now when you’re cooking this dish it may be a good idea to keep family members out the kitchen. Ham hocks ain’t really all that familiar to a generation of folk and okra is always polarizing.

My crew has been socialized over time to be open to okra given the frequency in which I cook it but initially they were scared off by the slime factor. Don’t worry these okra are slime free, as it’s one of the benefits of cooking them in an instant pot.

The high pressure cooks the slime away, leaving you with tender, delicious okra.

which pressure release approach do you use?

I allow the pressure to release naturally vs. the quick release approach I use for other recipes. In this recipe I allow for a 20 minute release. Use quick release by turning the valve to get rid of any remaining pressure.

can i cook this without an instant pot?

Yes indeed, it's just as easy, but will require a longer cooking time. Just make sure you have a enough liquid to cover the beans fully.

how long does beans cook in an instant pot?

All together it should take about an hour and 10 minutes. Actual cooking time is 40 minutes, but you'll need to add about 7 minutes to allow the instant pot to build pressure and about 20 minutes to release pressure naturally.

how to freeze instant pot ham and beans?

White bean soup is a great soup that can be frozen easily. The beans hold up nicely when stored properly in a refrigerator. Simply allow the soup to cool completely then place in hefty ziplock freezer bags. The soup can stay frozen forever as in like a few years. six years.

what kind of pressure cooker do i use?

I use the Instant Pot Duo 7 in 1. It serves me well as it has ample space and simple functionality with the settings.

For more instant pot soup recipes and/or comforting recipes with ham hocks you might like: : 

Smoked Ham Hocks w/ Whiskey and Cola Glaze 

Comforting Navy Beans and Ham

Southern Pinto Beans

Gameday Pork Nachos w/ Ham Hocks

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice

Southern Green Beans

Make This Recipe for Beans with Ham

This easy and delicious Instant Pot ham and beans soup is perfect for a winter meal. It really is one of my favorite instant pot recipes.

The best part is that it only takes about 30 minutes to make in your Instant Pot! If you don’t have an Instant Pot, no problem – this recipe can also be made on the stovetop. Give it a try this weekend – we promise you won’t be disappointed!

If you make this hearty, delicious ham and white bean stew, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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