This recipe delivers a delicious, comforting meal with minimal effort. Crock pot ham and green beans is the perfect weeknight dinner, offering tender ham and perfectly cooked green beans in a savory sauce. It's adaptable to your taste, allowing you to customize the seasonings and add other vegetables for a complete and satisfying dish.
What are the best cuts of ham for crock pot cooking?
The best cuts of ham for slow cooking in a crock pot are bone-in ham, ham steaks, or even leftover cooked ham. Avoid using pre-sliced ham, as it tends to dry out in the crock pot. Bone-in hams impart extra flavor to the cooking liquid, resulting in a richer, more flavorful dish. Ham steaks offer a great option for smaller portions or quicker cooking times. Leftover cooked ham can be added towards the end of the cooking time for a quick and easy meal.
How long do you cook ham and green beans in a crock pot?
Cooking time depends on the type of ham you're using and whether it's fully cooked or not. For a fully cooked bone-in ham, you'll typically cook it on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. For ham steaks or partially cooked ham, you'll need to adjust the cooking time accordingly, checking for doneness with a meat thermometer. The green beans should be added during the last hour or so of cooking, to prevent them from becoming mushy.
What seasonings are best for crock pot ham and green beans?
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and adaptability. Basic seasonings like salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder provide a great foundation. However, you can experiment with other seasonings to create your unique flavor profile. Consider adding brown sugar for a touch of sweetness, Dijon mustard for a tangy kick, or even a splash of apple cider vinegar for depth of flavor. Fresh or dried herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves can also enhance the overall taste.
Can you add other vegetables to crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is incredibly versatile. Consider adding other vegetables like potatoes, carrots, onions, or even a can of diced tomatoes for extra flavor and nutrients. The cooking time for these additions will depend on their type and size, so ensure they're tender before serving. Remember to adjust cooking times as needed to ensure all vegetables are cooked perfectly.
How do I make crock pot ham and green beans extra flavorful?
To elevate the flavor of your crock pot ham and green beans, try these tips:
- Use a flavorful ham: Opt for a ham with a good marbling of fat for extra richness.
- Add aromatics: Include onions, garlic, and celery to build a flavorful base.
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh herbs offer a brighter, more vibrant flavor compared to dried herbs.
- Deglaze the pot: After removing the ham, deglaze the pot with a little broth or wine to scrape up the browned bits for extra flavor.
- Thicken the sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can mix a tablespoon of cornstarch with a little water to create a slurry and add it to the pot during the last 15 minutes of cooking.
What to serve with crock pot ham and green beans?
This hearty dish pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce, mashed potatoes for a creamy counterpoint, or a simple green salad for a refreshing contrast. Cornbread is also a classic pairing that complements the savory flavors of the ham and green beans.
This crock pot ham and green beans recipe is a simple yet satisfying meal that's perfect for busy weeknights. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, it’s a surefire crowd-pleaser. Remember to adjust seasonings and cooking times to your preference and enjoy!
