Great Northern beans are a versatile staple that can be used in soups, stews, casseroles and more. They have a creamy texture and mild flavor that makes them perfect for soaking up other flavors in a dish. Leftover bean dishes like bean soup or ham and beans are prime candidates for freezing. Freezing is a great way to save time and reduce food waste by preserving leftovers for future meals. But can you safely freeze Great Northern beans and ham?
Can You Freeze Cooked Great Northern Beans?
Yes, cooked Great Northern beans can be frozen successfully. Dry beans like Great Northerns require soaking and lengthy cooking to become tender and edible. The cooking process breaks down the complex sugars and starches into a soft, creamy bean perfect for freezing.
To freeze cooked Great Northern beans:
- Portion beans into airtight freezer containers, bags or boxes. Leave 1-inch headspace for expansion.
- Seal and label with contents and freeze date.
- Freeze for up to 6 months.
When ready to eat, thaw beans in the refrigerator overnight. Use thawed beans in soups, stews, tacos, casseroles and other bean dishes. Beans may become mushy during thawing so avoid freezing if beans will be used for salads or other dishes where firm beans are preferred.
Can You Freeze Cooked Ham?
Cooked ham also freezes very well. Cured, precooked hams stay safe in the freezer for 1-2 months while uncured, uncooked hams like fresh picnic ham only last 1-3 weeks. To freeze ham:
- Cut ham into slices or chunks.
- Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in resealable bags.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal.
- Label with contents and freeze date.
- Freeze for 1-2 months for cooked ham.
Thaw frozen ham in the refrigerator overnight. Ham may lose some moisture during freezing so it’s best for casseroles, soups and bean dishes rather than sandwiches or eating on its own.
Can You Freeze Ham and Bean Soup?
Yes, soups featuring Great Northern beans and ham freeze very well. The low acidity level and solid ingredients like beans and ham make it a perfect soup to freeze. To freeze ham and bean soup:
- Make soup according to favorite recipe.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Portion into airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Leave 1-inch headspace.
- Seal, label and freeze.
- Freeze for 2-3 months.
Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. The soup may need additional broth or water added after thawing to account for evaporation during freezing.
Can You Freeze Baked Beans with Ham?
Baked beans tossed with ham and baked until tender and saucy is another bean dish suitable for freezing. Follow these steps:
- Prepare baked bean and ham recipe.
- Allow to cool completely.
- Portion into airtight containers or bags.
- Leave 1-inch headspace.
- Seal, label and freeze.
- Freeze for 2-3 months.
After thawing overnight in the fridge, baked bean dishes may need additional broth or sauce added before reheating to reach the desired consistency.
Tips for Freezing Beans and Ham
To safely preserve cooked beans, ham and bean-based dishes in the freezer, follow these tips:
- Make sure all ingredients are cooled completely before freezing.
- Use airtight containers or freezer bags.
- Remove as much air as possible and seal tightly.
- Label everything with contents and freeze date.
- Portion into serving sizes so you can thaw only what you need.
- Avoid letting frozen foods exceed recommended storage times.
- Thaw in the refrigerator, not on the counter or in hot water.
- Add extra liquid after thawing if needed before reheating.
Following proper freezing procedures will help maintain quality and safety.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does cooked ham last in the freezer?
Cooked ham that is cured or smoked can last 1-2 months in the freezer. Fresh, uncured ham only lasts 1-3 weeks.
Can you freeze cooked beans more than once?
It’s best to only freeze cooked beans once. Refreezing may lead to a mealy, mushy texture.
Do you have to thaw frozen ham and beans before cooking?
For best results, ham and beans dishes should be thawed overnight in the refrigerator before reheating and eating.
Is it better to freeze beans and ham separately?
Yes, freezing beans and ham separately gives you more flexibility. You can take out only what you need and create variations of dishes.
Should you add water to beans and ham before freezing?
No additional water is needed before freezing beans and ham dishes. But you may need to add extra liquid after thawing to account for evaporation.
Conclusion
Cooked Great Northern beans, ham and bean-based dishes like soups, baked beans, and ham and beans all freeze well. Allow ingredients to fully cool before portioning into airtight containers with 1-inch headspace. Label and freeze for up to 2-3 months. Thaw refrigerated overnight and add liquid as needed before reheating your hearty bean dish. Following proper procedures will allow you to safely preserve leftovers for future meals. Freezing beans and ham can save time, reduce waste and give you access to homecooked flavor all year long.