Ham with white bean stew (jambon aux mogettes) – Classic
This is the traditional, time-tested version of the dish. It stays true to its origins, using well-established techniques and ingredients that define its authentic flavor. A perfect starting point for exploring its evolution.
Country: 
France Region / Locale: Vendée Servings: Serves 4
France Region / Locale: Vendée Servings: Serves 4Jambon aux mogettes is a traditional dish from the Vendée region of France, renowned for its hearty and comforting flavors. This robust stew, featuring tender ham and creamy white beans (known as ‘mogettes’), captures the rustic essence of French country cooking. The dish combines simple ingredients with subtle yet profound flavors, representing French culinary traditions where regional produce shines. Perfect for a family gathering, this dish embodies warmth and conviviality.
Ingredients
- Thick-cut ham slices – 4 slices / 600 g
- Dried white beans (mogettes or navy beans) – 2 cups / 400 g
- Onion, chopped – 1 large / 150 g
- Carrots, diced – 2 medium / 200 g
- Garlic cloves, minced – 4 cloves
- Bay leaves – 2 leaves
- Thyme – 1 tsp / 1 g
- Olive oil – 2 tbsp / 30 ml
- Chicken broth – 4 cups / 960 ml
- Salt – to taste
- Black pepper – to taste
Instructions
- Rinse the beans and soak them overnight in a large bowl with enough water to cover by about two inches.
- Drain and rinse the beans, then set them aside.
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, diced carrots, and minced garlic. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent.
- Add the ham slices, and cook until lightly browned on both sides.
- Stir in the beans, bay leaves, thyme, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 1.5 hours, or until the beans are tender.
- Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
Substitutions
- Dried white beans -> Canned white beans (use three 400g cans, drained)
- Chicken broth -> Vegetable broth
- Thick-cut ham slices -> Smoked sausage or bacon
Enhancements in the Next Evolution
- Add a splash of white wine before adding the broth for extra flavor.
- Include a sprig of rosemary during cooking for added aroma.
- Use smoked paprika to give the stew a subtle smoky undertone.
Curious to see how this dish evolves? Discover refined flavors and enhanced techniques in the next version.
