Ingredients:
1 (16 oz) package dried Northern beans
3–4 meaty ham hocks, shanks, or a meaty ham bone
1 small white onion, finely diced
Water (enough to cover the beans)
Salt and pepper, to taste
1/3 cup light brown sugar
Instructions:
Prep the Beans:
Sort through the beans, removing any pebbles or debris. Rinse them thoroughly under cold running water.
Assemble the Ingredients:
In a large crockpot, combine the rinsed beans, diced onion, and ham hocks (or ham bone). Pour in enough water to fully submerge the beans.
Season:
Sprinkle in the brown sugar, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cook:
Cover the crockpot and cook:
Low setting: 8–10 hours
High setting: 4–6 hours
Stir occasionally, and add more water if necessary to keep the beans covered.
Finish and Serve:
Once the beans are tender, remove the ham hocks. Shred the meat from the bones and return it to the pot. Stir to combine, adjust the seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
