Amish Ham and Green Beans

Amish Ham and Green Beans : Tender ham and fresh green beans slow-cooked with potatoes and onions in a rich, savory broth until every bite tastes like old-fashioned comfort.

Amish Ham and Green Beans is the kind of meal that feels like it came straight from a farmhouse kitchen. This dish is simple, hearty, and deeply satisfying, the way real country cooking was always meant to be. Tender chunks of ham, fresh green beans, and buttery potatoes simmer together with sweet onions and a touch of seasoning until everything is melt-in-your-mouth tender and full of flavor. It is a complete meal in one pot, and it tastes even better the next day.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the magic of slow cooking. The ham infuses the broth with smoky, savory depth, while the green beans and potatoes soak up all that delicious goodness. It is the kind of dish that has been passed down through generations, and one bite will tell you why. Serve it with crusty bread or cornbread for a meal that warms both body and soul.

The Ingredients

- 2 pounds ham, cut into 1-inch cubes (ham steak, leftover ham, or ham hock)

- 1 ½ pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped in half

- 4 large russet or Yukon gold potatoes, peeled and cut into chunks

- 1 large onion, sliced

- 4 cups chicken broth or water

- 2 tablespoons butter

- 1 teaspoon garlic powder

- 1 teaspoon onion powder

- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika

- ½ teaspoon black pepper

- Salt to taste (depending on the saltiness of the ham)

- Fresh parsley for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

- Place the sliced onion in the bottom of the slow cooker.

- Add the ham cubes on top of the onion.

- Layer the green beans and potato chunks over the ham.

- In a medium bowl, whisk together the chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, and black pepper.

- Pour the broth mixture over the ham, green beans, and potatoes.

- Dot the top with the butter.

- Cover and cook on low for 6 to 7 hours or on high for 3 to 4 hours, until the green beans and potatoes are fork-tender and the ham is heated through.

- Taste the broth and adjust seasoning with salt if needed. Be careful, as the ham may already provide plenty of salt.

- Gently stir everything together before serving.

- Garnish with fresh parsley.

- Serve hot with crusty bread or cornbread.

Pro Tips and Variations

For the best flavor, use a smoked ham hock or leftover ham from a holiday dinner. The smoky, salty depth it adds to the broth is unmatched. If using ham steak, adjust the salt accordingly.

Fresh green beans are ideal for this recipe, but frozen green beans work well too. If using frozen, add them during the last hour of cooking to prevent them from becoming mushy.

For extra richness, add a tablespoon of bacon drippings or a few slices of cooked bacon to the slow cooker.

This recipe is also excellent with the addition of carrots or parsnips. Add them with the potatoes for extra color and flavor.

Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors deepen and improve overnight. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Amish Ham and Green Beans provides approximately 400 to 550 calories. It contains roughly 30 grams of protein, 20 grams of fat, 30 grams of carbohydrates, and 6 grams of fiber. The sodium content is around 1200 to 1500 milligrams, largely from the ham.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use canned green beans? Yes, canned green beans work in a pinch. Add them during the last 30 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft.

Can I make this without potatoes? Yes, you can omit the potatoes or substitute them with sweet potatoes or turnips.

Why are my green beans mushy? Mushy green beans are usually the result of overcooking. Check them at the minimum cooking time and adjust accordingly. Fresh beans hold up better than frozen or canned.

Can I use a different type of ham? Yes, ham steak, leftover spiral ham, or ham hocks all work well. Adjust the salt based on the ham you choose.

What can I serve with this dish? Crusty bread, cornbread, or a simple green salad all pair beautifully with this hearty meal.

Conclusion

Amish Ham and Green Beans is a delicious, hearty, and deeply comforting meal that brings old-fashioned country cooking to your dinner table with minimal effort. The tender ham, fresh green beans, and buttery potatoes create a dish that is both satisfying and nostalgic. Whether you serve it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a Sunday supper, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite.