Green beans and ham—a classic combination that's even better when slow-cooked to perfection in your crock pot! This recipe is incredibly easy, requires minimal prep, and delivers a tender, flavorful side dish or hearty main course, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Let's dive into the delicious details.
Why Crock Pot Green Beans and Ham?
The magic of the crock pot lies in its ability to infuse flavors slowly and gently. This method yields incredibly tender green beans with a subtle smoky sweetness from the ham, creating a depth of flavor you simply can't achieve with quicker cooking methods. The hands-off nature of crock pot cooking also makes it ideal for those short on time or who prefer minimal kitchen fuss.
What You'll Need:
- 1 lb green beans: Trimmed and washed. You can use fresh or frozen – frozen green beans work perfectly and often require no thawing.
- 1 lb ham: Choose your favorite! A bone-in ham hock adds extra richness, while diced ham steak offers convenience. Leftover ham is fantastic too!
- 1 cup chicken broth: Or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- 1/4 cup brown sugar: Adds a touch of sweetness that balances the saltiness of the ham. You can adjust to your preference.
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard: Adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of spice.
- Optional additions: Consider adding a bay leaf for a deeper flavor, or a splash of apple cider vinegar for a brighter taste. Some cooks also like to add a small onion, diced, for extra aromatic depth.
How to Make Crock Pot Green Beans and Ham:
- Combine Ingredients: Place the trimmed green beans and ham in your crock pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the brown sugar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Cook on Low: Cook on low for 6-8 hours, or on high for 3-4 hours, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the ham is fully cooked through. If using a bone-in ham hock, the cooking time might need to be slightly longer.
- Shred the Ham (optional): Once cooked, remove the ham from the crock pot and shred it with two forks. Return the shredded ham to the crock pot and stir to combine with the green beans.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve warm as a delicious side dish or a hearty main course.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, absolutely! Frozen green beans are perfect for this recipe and often require no thawing. Just add them directly to the crock pot.
How do I know when the green beans are done?
The green beans are done when they are tender-crisp and easily pierced with a fork. Overcooked green beans will become mushy, so be sure to check them periodically during the cooking process.
What kind of ham should I use?
You can use any kind of ham you like! Bone-in ham hocks, diced ham steak, or leftover cooked ham all work well. A bone-in ham hock adds extra flavor and richness.
Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
While this recipe is specifically designed for a slow cooker, you can adapt it for an Instant Pot. Pressure cook on high for 10-15 minutes, then naturally release the pressure for at least 10 minutes before serving. You may need to adjust the liquid slightly.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes! Feel free to experiment with other vegetables like carrots, potatoes, or onions. Just add them to the crock pot along with the green beans and ham. Adjust cooking time as needed depending on the vegetables you choose.
This simple Crock Pot Green Beans and Ham recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Its ease of preparation and delicious results make it a perfect addition to your weeknight dinner rotation or a special occasion meal. Enjoy!
