FOOD
Smoky Southern Beans with Sausage and Johnny Cakes
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Ingredients:
- 1 cup Great Northern beans, dried
- 1 cup Pinto beans, dried
- 4 cups water (for soaking beans)
- 1 pound smoked neckbones
- 1/2 pound smoked sausage, sliced
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Johnny Cakes:
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup milk
- 1 large egg
- 1/4 cup melted butter
Instructions:
- Prepare Beans:
- Rinse the dried Great Northern and Pinto beans and place them in a large bowl.
- Cover the beans with about 4 cups of water and let them soak overnight. Drain and rinse before cooking.
- Cook Smoked Meats:
- In a large pot over medium heat, add the smoked neckbones and sausage. Sauté until the meats are browned and flavorful.
- Sauté Aromatics:
- Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
- Add Beans and Tomatoes:
- Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
- Season and Simmer:
- Pour in the chicken broth and season with dried thyme, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 2 hours or until beans are tender.
- Prepare Johnny Cakes:
- In a mixing bowl, combine cornmeal, all-purpose flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together milk, egg, and melted butter.
- Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
- Cook Johnny Cakes:
- Heat a griddle or skillet over medium heat and lightly grease.
- Pour 1/4 cup portions of batter onto the griddle to form pancakes. Cook until bubbles form on the surface, then flip and cook until golden brown.
- Serve:
- Ladle the smoky beans and sausage mixture into bowls.
- Serve the Johnny Cakes on the side, providing a delicious and hearty accompaniment.
This recipe brings together the rich flavors of smoked meats, savory beans, and the comforting touch of Johnny Cakes for a satisfying Southern-inspired meal. Enjoy the hearty goodness!
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