This recipe for crock pot ham and green beans delivers a comforting, delicious meal with minimal effort. Perfect for busy weeknights or a relaxed weekend supper, this dish is adaptable to your taste and what you have on hand. The slow cooking process renders the ham incredibly tender and infuses the green beans with savory flavor. Let's dive into the details and explore some frequently asked questions.
What kind of ham works best in a crock pot?
The best ham for a crock pot is a bone-in ham, either a city ham (fully cooked) or a country ham (requires pre-soaking and longer cooking time). City hams are readily available in most grocery stores and require less preparation. A bone-in ham adds extra flavor and moisture to the dish. Avoid using pre-sliced ham, as it tends to dry out in the slow cooker. You can also use leftover ham from a holiday roast; just ensure it's fully cooked.
How long do I cook ham and green beans in a crock pot?
Cooking time depends on the size of your ham and whether it's bone-in or boneless, and if it's pre-cooked or needs to be cooked. For a 3-4 pound bone-in city ham, cooking on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours is typically sufficient. Always use a meat thermometer to ensure the ham reaches an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C). Add the green beans during the last hour of cooking to prevent overcooking. If using a smaller ham, reduce the cooking time accordingly.
Can I add other vegetables to my crock pot ham and green beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is highly adaptable. Consider adding other vegetables like:
- Potatoes: Cubed potatoes add a hearty element to the dish and absorb the ham's flavor.
- Carrots: Baby carrots or sliced carrots cook beautifully in the slow cooker.
- Onions: A diced onion adds sweetness and depth of flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of garlic, minced or whole, will enhance the savory notes.
Experiment with your favorite vegetables to create your own unique twist on this recipe.
What seasonings should I use?
Basic seasonings such as salt, pepper, and a touch of brown sugar will enhance the natural flavors of the ham and green beans. For added complexity, consider:
- Garlic powder: Enhances the savory notes.
- Onion powder: Complements the ham and vegetables.
- Dried thyme or rosemary: Adds an herbal touch.
- Mustard powder: Provides a subtle tang.
How do I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?
To prevent the green beans from becoming mushy, add them during the last hour of cooking. This allows them to become tender but retain their texture. You can also blanch the green beans briefly before adding them to the crock pot.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
While it's best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ham and vegetables in the crock pot the night before and cook it on low the next day. Just be mindful of food safety and ensure the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C) before serving.
Is this recipe healthy?
This recipe can be part of a healthy diet. Ham is a good source of protein, and green beans are packed with vitamins and fiber. However, the sodium content of ham can be high, so you may wish to adjust seasoning accordingly and consider using a lower-sodium ham.
This crock pot ham and green beans recipe is a simple, satisfying meal that's perfect for any occasion. With its ease of preparation and adaptability, it's sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!
