Slow Cooker Depression Era Pork Shanks and Navy Beans

Introduction

Slow Cooker Depression Era Pork Shanks and Navy Beans is a humble, budget-friendly comfort food inspired by simple meals that helped families stretch ingredients during difficult times. Tender pork shanks slowly cook alongside hearty navy beans, creating a rich, flavorful dish that is filling, nutritious, and easy to prepare with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• 2 meaty pork shanks (about 1½–2 pounds total)
• 1 pound dried navy beans, rinsed and sorted
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 6 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1 bay leaf

Instructions

1. Rinse and sort the navy beans, removing any debris or damaged beans.
2. Place the beans in the bottom of a slow cooker.
3. Add the diced onion, garlic, thyme, salt, pepper, and bay leaf.
4. Lay the pork shanks on top of the bean mixture.
5. Pour the broth or water over everything.
6. Cover and cook on Low for 8–10 hours or High for 5–6 hours, until the beans are tender and the pork is falling off the bone.
7. Remove the pork shanks and discard the bones and excess fat.
8. Shred the meat and return it to the slow cooker.
9. Stir well, taste, and adjust seasonings as needed.
10. Serve hot with cornbread, biscuits, or crusty bread.

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