Ham and green beans are a classic comfort food combination, and the slow cooker makes it incredibly easy to achieve perfectly tender, flavorful results. This recipe offers a simple approach, but feel free to customize it to your taste with added spices or other vegetables. Let's dive into the delicious details!
What's the Best Cut of Ham for Crock Pot Cooking?
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 ham offers convenience, needing only to be warmed through, while country ham provides a more intense, salty flavor. For this recipe, we recommend a bone-in city ham for ease and optimal results. Using a spiral-cut ham will also work well, offering convenience and ease of serving.
How Long Should I Cook Ham and Green Beans in a Crock Pot?
Cooking time depends on the size of your ham and whether it's fully cooked or needs to be cooked from raw. For a fully cooked bone-in city ham, you’ll generally need just a few hours on low (4-6 hours) to heat it through and meld the flavors. If you are using a raw ham, you’ll need to adjust the cooking time significantly. Always check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should reach 145°F (63°C) for safety. The green beans will become tender in the last hour or two of cooking.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to My Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans?
Absolutely! This recipe is easily adaptable. Consider adding:
- Potatoes: Diced potatoes will cook beautifully alongside the ham and beans.
- Carrots: Add chopped carrots for extra sweetness and nutrition.
- Onions: A chopped onion will add depth of flavor.
- Garlic: A few cloves of minced garlic will enhance the savory notes.
Remember to add any additional vegetables during the last few hours of cooking time so they don't overcook.
How Do I Make Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans Taste Better?
Experiment with different seasonings to elevate the flavor profile. Here are some ideas:
- Brown Sugar: A sprinkle of brown sugar adds a touch of sweetness that complements the ham.
- Garlic Powder: Enhance the savory notes with garlic powder.
- Onion Powder: A great alternative or addition to fresh onion.
- Black Pepper: A classic seasoning that complements the savory flavors.
- Liquid Smoke: A few drops of liquid smoke adds a smoky depth, mimicking the flavor of barbequed ham.
What Are the Best Green Beans to Use?
Fresh green beans are ideal, offering the most vibrant flavor and texture. However, frozen green beans work perfectly well too; just add them to the slow cooker during the last hour of cooking. Avoid canned green beans, as they tend to be too soft and lack the desired crispness.
What Can I Serve with Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans?
This hearty dish pairs well with a variety of side dishes. Consider serving it with:
- Cornbread: A classic Southern pairing.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and flavorful complement.
- Dinner Rolls: Soft, warm dinner rolls are perfect for soaking up the delicious juices.
- Simple Salad: A light green salad will balance the richness of the ham and beans.
Is Crock Pot Ham and Green Beans Healthy?
This dish can be part of a healthy diet. Ham, while containing sodium, provides protein. Green beans are packed with vitamins and fiber. By controlling the amount of added sugar and choosing leaner ham options when available, you can enjoy a delicious and relatively healthy meal.
This recipe is a versatile and delicious option for a busy weeknight meal. Remember to adjust cooking times and seasonings to your liking. Enjoy!
