Great Northern Bean, Ham and Vegetable Chowder Recipe
This hearty Great Northern bean chowder recipe simmers soaked white beans with ham hocks, diced ham, and simple vegetables for a thick, comforting bowl. The steps keep it easy: soak, simmer, add veggies, then season and finish.
Ingredients
Ingredients
Step-by-Step Method
Soak the beans
Rinse the dried white beans, cover with plenty of water, and soak for about 8 hours. Drain before cooking.
Start the simmer
Add drained beans and ham hocks to a large pot. Pour in enough water to cover by a few inches and bring to a boil.
Cook until tender
Reduce to a gentle simmer with the lid slightly ajar. Cook 60–75 minutes, skimming foam if needed, until the beans soften.
Add the vegetables
Stir in onion, carrot, and green pepper. Keep simmering 10–15 minutes so the veggies cook through.
Season and add tomatoes
Mix in diced ham and chopped tomatoes. Add sugar, salt, cayenne, and mace, then stir well so the flavors spread evenly.
Finish the chowder
Simmer 10–15 minutes more to thicken slightly. If it gets too thick, loosen with a splash of hot water, taste, and serve hot.

