Crockpot cooking truly is a form of culinary magic. With its slow simmering, it allows ingredients to mingle and infuse in a way that intensifies their flavors, creating dishes that are deeply satisfying. This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes recipe is a testament to the wonders of slow cooking, offering a hearty and wholesome meal with minimal effort. It’s perfect for busy days when you want to come home to a warm, ready-to-eat dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl.
A Comforting Meal Made Easy
This recipe captures the essence of home-cooked comfort food. The combination of savory ham, tender potatoes, and sweet green beans cooked slowly in a rich broth results in a flavorful dish that’s both nourishing and comforting. Here’s how to prepare this simple yet delicious meal that’s sure to become a family favorite.
- Preparation time: 20 minutes
- Cooking time: 8-10 hours
- Serving: 6-8 people
- Equipment: Crockpot
Recipe Title: Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes
Enjoy the deep, melded flavors that only slow cooking can achieve, and let this simple, satisfying meal warm the hearts and bellies of all who gather at your table.
Ingredients:
- 2 lbs ham hock
- 2-3 large russet potatoes, peeled and chopped into two-inch pieces
- 16 oz green beans, frozen or fresh
- 1 lb cubed ham steak (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
- Cook the Ham Hocks: Place the ham hocks in the crockpot and cover them completely with water. Set the crockpot on high and cook for about 5 hours, or until the meat is very tender.
- Prepare the Meat: Carefully remove the ham hocks from the crockpot using tongs. Discard any fat and bones, and shred the meat. Return the shredded meat to the crockpot.
- Add Vegetables: Approximately 2-3 hours before you plan to eat, add the chopped potatoes and green beans to the crockpot. If the water level is low, add more to ensure everything is slightly covered. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Continue Cooking: Let the crockpot continue cooking on high for about 2-3 hours, or until the potatoes are tender and the green beans are cooked to your liking.
Two-Day Instructions for Enhanced Flavor:
- Day One: Follow step 1 as above. After cooking, remove the ham hocks and let the broth cool. Refrigerate the broth overnight.
- Day Two: Skim off any fat that has solidified on the surface of the broth. Remove the meat from the ham hocks, discarding fat and bones. Return the shredded meat to the crockpot with the chilled broth.
- Add Vegetables and Cook: Add the diced potatoes and green beans to the crockpot. Cook on high for approximately 3 hours, or until the vegetables are tender and flavorful.
Serve and Savor
This Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes dish is best served warm, ideally with a side of crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal. It’s a perfect dish for chilly days or whenever you need a comforting meal without much fuss.
