This recipe for Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans delivers a comforting, flavorful meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or effortless entertaining, this dish combines the savory richness of ham with the bright freshness of green beans. We'll explore variations, answer common questions, and help you master this simple yet elegant recipe.
What kind of ham works best in a crock pot?
You can use a variety of ham in this recipe, but some work better than others. A bone-in ham, whether a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires pre-soaking and cooking), will impart the most flavor to the broth. However, a boneless ham (fully cooked) is a convenient alternative, offering ease of preparation and consistent results. Avoid using raw ham; this recipe is designed for pre-cooked hams only. Consider using leftover ham, too! It's a great way to avoid food waste and create a delicious meal.
How long should I cook ham and green beans in a slow cooker?
Cooking time depends on the size and type of ham, as well as your desired tenderness. For a bone-in ham (around 4-6 lbs), plan on cooking on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours. A smaller, boneless ham (around 2-3 lbs) will require less time, usually 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. The green beans will cook alongside the ham, becoming tender and flavorful. Overcooking can lead to mushy beans, so keep an eye on them as they near the end of the cooking time.
Can I add other vegetables to my crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider adding:
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes will absorb the ham flavor beautifully. Add them during the last hour or two of cooking.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots add sweetness and color.
- Onions: A chopped onion adds depth of flavor. Add it at the beginning of the cooking time.
- Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic will enhance the savory notes.
What spices should I use with crock pot ham and green beans?
While simple seasonings often work best, feel free to experiment! Here are some suggestions:
- Black pepper: A classic pairing with ham.
- Garlic powder: A convenient alternative to fresh garlic.
- Onion powder: Adds depth and complements the ham.
- Bay leaf: Adds a subtle, savory aroma. Remove before serving.
- Dried thyme or rosemary: Adds an herbaceous note.
How do I make my crock pot ham and green beans recipe even better?
To elevate your dish, consider these tips:
- Use fresh, high-quality ingredients. The better your ingredients, the better your dish will taste.
- Don't overcrowd the crock pot. Give the ham and green beans enough space to cook evenly.
- Adjust the seasoning to your taste. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed towards the end of the cooking time.
- Add a touch of sweetness: A tablespoon or two of brown sugar or maple syrup can balance the saltiness of the ham.
- Garnish before serving: Fresh parsley or a sprinkle of paprika adds visual appeal and flavor.
Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans Recipe (Basic)
Ingredients:
- 2-4 lbs fully cooked ham (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 cup chicken broth (or ham broth for extra flavor)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
Instructions:
- Place the ham in the bottom of your slow cooker.
- Add the green beans, chicken broth, and seasonings.
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours (or high for 3-4 hours), or until the green beans are tender.
- Shred the ham (if using a bone-in ham) and serve with the green beans.
This recipe is a starting point; feel free to adapt it to your own preferences and available ingredients. Enjoy your delicious and effortless Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans!
