Slow Cooker Northern Beans

### Instructions:

**1. Rinse and Sort the Beans:**
Before you begin, rinse the Northern beans under cold water to remove any debris. Check for any small stones or damaged beans and discard them. Sorting the beans is important to ensure that only clean, whole beans make it into the pot.

**2. Prepare the Vegetables:**
Dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small pieces. If you’re using garlic, mince it finely. These vegetables will add flavor and texture to the beans, making the dish more hearty and delicious.

**3. Add Ingredients to the Slow Cooker:**
Add the rinsed beans to the slow cooker. Then, pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you’re making it vegetarian), and add the chopped onion, minced garlic, carrots, celery, bay leaf, thyme, and smoked paprika (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.

**4. Add the Meat (Optional):**
If you’re using ham, add the ham hock or diced ham to the slow cooker. The ham will infuse the beans with a rich, savory flavor as they cook. If you’re making a vegetarian version, you can skip the meat and add extra vegetables or seasonings for flavor.

**5. Set the Slow Cooker:**
Cover the slow cooker and cook the beans on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. The beans are done when they are tender and easily mashable with a fork. If you’re using a ham hock, you may want to remove it at the end of cooking and shred the meat before returning it to the beans for added texture and flavor.

**6. Stir and Adjust Seasoning:**
Once the beans are tender, give them a good stir. Taste the beans and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or spices as needed. You can also add a bit more broth if the beans are too thick for your liking.

**7. Serve and Enjoy:**
Once your beans are perfectly cooked, serve them hot as a main dish with cornbread or rice, or enjoy them as a side dish with your favorite protein. You can garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or thyme for an extra touch of flavor.

### Tips for the Best Slow Cooker Northern Beans:

– **Soak the Beans (Optional):** While it’s not necessary, soaking the dry beans overnight can help reduce cooking time and make the beans easier to digest. If you choose to soak them, make sure to drain and rinse them before adding them to the slow cooker.

– **Use Low-Sodium Broth:** To keep the dish healthier, opt for low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth. You can always add more salt later if needed, but starting with a low-sodium base ensures you have more control over the seasoning.

– **Add Extra Veggies:** While carrots, celery, and onions are classic additions, you can customize the recipe by adding other vegetables like bell peppers, tomatoes, or even kale for extra flavor and nutrients.

– **Flavor Enhancements:** For added depth of flavor, try incorporating a little apple cider vinegar, a splash of hot sauce, or a pinch of cayenne pepper to spice things up. These ingredients can elevate the dish and add a unique twist.

– **Make it Creamy:** If you prefer a creamier texture, use an immersion blender to mash a portion of the beans directly in the slow cooker. This will create a thicker, creamier consistency that’s perfect for serving over rice or cornbread.

### Why This Recipe is Perfect for Any Occasion:

*Slow Cooker Northern Beans* are the ultimate comfort food, and they’re perfect for many different occasions. Whether you’re feeding a family, prepping meals for the week, or looking for a dish to bring to a potluck, this recipe is sure to satisfy. It’s also a great way to use up leftover ham or make a hearty vegetarian meal.

This dish is easy to customize based on what you have on hand, making it an excellent recipe for using up pantry staples or leftover ingredients. Plus, with the slow cooker doing most of the work, it’s a perfect meal for busy days when you want something comforting with minimal effort.

### Conclusion:

*Slow Cooker Northern Beans* are a flavorful, hearty, and budget-friendly dish that’s perfect for any meal. With minimal effort and simple ingredients, you can create a comforting meal that’s full of flavor and nutrition. Whether you serve it on its own or as a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, set your slow cooker, and enjoy a delicious, home-cooked meal that’s sure to warm you up and satisfy your taste buds.