Smoky Southern Beans with Sausage and Johnny Cakes

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:

1. 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.
2. Cook Smoked Meats:
   • In a large pot over medium heat, add the smoked neckbones and sausage. Sauté until the meats are browned and flavorful.
3. Sauté Aromatics:
   • Add chopped onions, minced garlic, and diced bell pepper to the pot. Sauté until the vegetables are softened.
4. Add Beans and Tomatoes:
   • Add the soaked and drained beans to the pot.
   • Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice.
5. 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.
6. 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.
7. 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.
8. 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!