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Great northern beans with smoked turkey neckbones and ho cakes 🔥🔥 Pass me the hot sauce
135min
Total Time
6 people
Servings
Medium
Difficulty
Moderate
Cost
350 kcal
Calories
This savory dish of Great Northern Beans with smoked turkey neckbones and ho cakes is a warm and hearty comfort food perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
6
- 1 pound Great Northern beans
- 2 smoked turkey neckbones
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 cup cornmeal
- 2 cups water
- 1 teaspoon baking powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon butter
Instructions
1
Rinse the Great Northern beans under cold water and soak them in water overnight.
2
In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they are soft and translucent.
3
Add the soaked beans, smoked turkey neckbones, chicken broth, smoked paprika, ground cumin, and season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
4
Reduce the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 to 2 hours, or until the beans are tender and the turkey is falling off the bone.
5
In a separate bowl, combine the cornmeal, baking powder, and salt. Gradually add water to the mixture, stirring until smooth.
6
Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little butter, and pour in the cornmeal batter, forming pancake-like ho cakes. Cook until golden brown on both sides.
7
Once the beans are cooked, remove the turkey neckbones, shred the meat, and return it to the pot. Stir well and adjust seasonings if necessary.
8
Serve the beans hot alongside the ho cakes, drizzled with your favorite hot sauce.
Kitchen Tools
- Large pot
- Skillet
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon
- Ladle
Pro Tips
Soaking beans overnight reduces cooking time and enhances digestibility.
For extra flavor, add a bay leaf or some thyme during the cooking process.
Ho cakes can be customized by adding cheese or jalapeños to the batter for extra zest.
Troubleshooting
If the beans are still hard after cooking, check for freshness or soak them longer next time.
If the ho cakes are too thick, add a bit more water to the batter.
Recipe Variations
Add diced bell peppers or carrots for extra nutrition and flavor.
Try using different types of beans for a varied texture.
Healthy Alternatives
Replace turkey neckbones with smoked tempeh for a vegetarian version.
Use whole grain cornmeal for added fiber.
Serving Suggestions
Serve alongside a side salad to lighten up the meal.
Pair with cornbread for an even heartier feast.
Nutrition Facts
350
Calories
28g
Protein
50g
Carbs
10g
Fat
12g
Fiber
2g
Sugar
800mg
Sodium
30mg
Cholesterol
Dietary Info
High-protein
Gluten-free
Garnish Ideas
Chopped green onions on top for a pop of color.
A dollop of sour cream or yogurt for creaminess.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freeze the beans in portions for later use.
Leftover Ideas
Mash the beans into a spread for sandwiches.
Use as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Not soaking the beans long enough can lead to uneven cooking.
Adding too much salt at the beginning can make the beans tough.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use dried beans instead of canned?
Yes, dried beans are preferred for this recipe as they absorb flavors better.
Is it necessary to soak the beans?
Soaking is highly recommended to ensure even cooking and better digestibility.
What other meats can I use instead of turkey neckbones?
You can use smoked chicken or ham hocks as substitutes.
Can I cook this in a slow cooker?
Yes, combine all ingredients in a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños to the bean mixture for extra heat.
Reviews
Emily
Jul 25, 2026
This recipe is a family favorite. The beans are so flavorful!
Michael
Jul 19, 2026
I loved the ho cakes with the beans; they were a perfect pairing!
Ava
Jul 3, 2026
It was good but took longer to cook than expected.
James
Jul 28, 2026
So hearty and satisfying! I will definitely make it again.
Sophia
Jul 27, 2026
The flavors blended beautifully, and the hot sauce was a great touch!
Daniel
Jul 15, 2026
Comfort food at its finest! I can't wait to share it with my friends.
Olivia
Jul 2, 2026
Delicious and filling, but I felt it needed more spice.
Noah
Jul 8, 2026
Perfect for a cold day! A bowl of this warms you right up.
Isabella
Jul 12, 2026
Originally skeptical about neckbones, but they added amazing flavor!
Liam
Jul 10, 2026
Tasty, but took longer than I had planned.
Emma
Jul 21, 2026
My kids love this! Always a hit at dinner.
Alexander
Jul 25, 2026
Great recipe! The ingredients worked well together.
Mia
Jul 3, 2026
I followed it step by step, and it turned out perfect!
Ethan
Jul 6, 2026
Addictively delicious. I couldn't stop eating!
Charlotte
Jul 10, 2026
I love making this for get-togethers. It's always a winner!
Benjamin
Jul 8, 2026
It was good but not spectacular.
