Introduction
Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes is a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect for a comforting family meal or a potluck gathering. This slow-cooked dish combines the smoky saltiness of ham with the freshness of green beans and the heartiness of potatoes. It is a complete meal in one pot, making it convenient and easy to prepare with minimal effort. The slow cooking process allows all the flavors to meld together, creating a satisfying and delicious dish that will have everyone coming back for more.
Traditional Comfort Food
Indulge in the classic combination of ham, green beans, and potatoes with this traditional recipe that evokes memories of home-cooked meals and family dinners. The simplicity of the ingredients combined with the hands-off cooking method of the crockpot makes this dish a go-to option for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. The tender ham, crisp green beans, and soft potatoes create a textural contrast that is pleasing to the palate, while the savory flavors marry together beautifully during the slow cooking process.
Easy Preparation and Versatile Serving
With just a few basic ingredients and minimal preparation required, Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes is a practical meal option for both novice and experienced home cooks. The versatility of this dish allows for various serving options – from a standalone main course to a side dish accompanying other entrees. Whether you are cooking for a small family dinner or a larger gathering, this dish can easily be scaled to suit your needs. The convenience of using a crockpot also means you can set it and forget it, allowing you more time to attend to other tasks while the flavors develop in the pot.
What Tools You’ll Need
Essential Kitchen Tools
– Large crockpot
– Cutting board
– Knife
– Can opener
– Measuring cups and spoons
– Potato peeler
To start preparing this delicious dish, you will need a large crockpot to accommodate all the ingredients. A cutting board and a sharp knife are essential for chopping the ham and vegetables. A can opener will come in handy for opening the cans of green beans and cream of mushroom soup. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure accurate quantities of ingredients. Don’t forget a potato peeler to peel and prepare the potatoes for cooking.
Cooking Utensils
– Wooden spoon
– Tongs
– Ladle
– Serving bowls
Once the ingredients are in the crockpot, you’ll want to have a wooden spoon for stirring and mixing everything together. Tongs are useful for handling the ham and vegetables during preparation. A ladle will be needed to serve the cooked dish into individual bowls. Make sure to have enough serving bowls for your delicious Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes dish when it’s ready to be enjoyed.
Ingredients with Detailed Measurements
Main Ingredients
– 3 lbs of ham, preferably bone-in for added flavor
– 4 cups of fresh green beans, trimmed and washed
– 4 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon of dried rosemary
– 1 teaspoon of paprika
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 cup of water
Additional Seasonings and Garnish
– Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish
– Red pepper flakes (optional for added spice)
– Lemon wedges (optional for a citrusy kick)
To ensure the dish is flavorful, choose a quality ham that suits your preference. Fresh green beans and potatoes work best to maintain the dish’s texture. The combination of garlic, thyme, rosemary, and paprika provides a well-rounded flavor profile. The addition of broth keeps the ingredients moist during the slow cooking process. Incorporating a flour-water mixture helps thicken the sauce for a hearty consistency. Optionally, garnish with fresh parsley, red pepper flakes, or a squeeze of lemon for an extra pop of flavor.
Instructions
Preparing the Ingredients
– Begin by dicing the ham into bite-sized pieces.
– Slice the potatoes into rounds of about ½ inch thickness.
– Trim the ends of the green beans and cut them into 1 to 2-inch pieces.
– Mince the garlic and chop the onion finely.
Assembly and Cooking
– In a crockpot, layer the ham, green beans, potatoes, minced garlic, and chopped onion.
– Season the layers with salt, pepper, and any additional desired herbs or spices.
– Pour in about 1 cup of water or chicken broth to provide moisture during cooking.
– Cover the crockpot with a lid and cook on low for 7-8 hours or on high for 4-5 hours, until the vegetables are tender.
– Once done, stir gently to combine all the ingredients before serving the delicious crockpot ham, green beans, and potatoes.
Nutrition Score
Calories and Macronutrients
– Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes is a satisfying dish with balanced nutrition. A serving typically provides around 350 calories, making it a moderate-calorie meal suitable for most diets.
– In terms of macronutrients, this dish offers a good mix of proteins, carbohydrates, and fats. The ham contributes protein for muscle maintenance and repair, while the green beans and potatoes provide carbohydrates for energy.
Vitamins and Minerals
– This dish is rich in essential vitamins and minerals. Green beans are a great source of vitamins A and C, important for immune function and skin health. Potatoes supply potassium for heart health and muscle function.
– Additionally, ham contains important B vitamins like niacin and B12, crucial for energy production and nerve function. The combination of these ingredients ensures a well-rounded nutrient profile in this meal.
In conclusion, Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes not only offer a flavorful dining experience but also deliver a healthy dose of essential nutrients. By incorporating this dish into your meal rotation, you can enjoy a delicious and nourishing option that supports overall well-being.
Serving & Storage
Serving Suggestions
– To serve Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes, spoon the delicious mixture onto individual plates, ensuring each serving has a generous portion of ham, green beans, and potatoes.
– Garnish with freshly chopped parsley or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for an extra burst of flavor.
– Pair this comforting dish with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to sop up the savory juices.
– For a more substantial meal, serve over a bed of fluffy white rice or creamy mashed potatoes.
Storage Tips
– Store any leftovers of Crockpot Ham, Green Beans, and Potatoes in airtight containers in the refrigerator.
– The dish can be kept in the fridge for up to 3-4 days, ensuring it is reheated thoroughly before serving.
– To freeze leftovers, place the cooled mixture in freezer-safe containers, leaving some room for expansion, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
– When ready to enjoy the frozen leftovers, allow them to thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.
Variations
Meat Substitutions
– Try substituting the ham with cooked and crumbled bacon for a smokier flavor profile.
– For a healthier option, swap the ham with lean turkey or chicken sausage.
Vegetarian Twist
– For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add extra vegetables such as carrots, bell peppers, and mushrooms.
– Enhance the flavor by incorporating vegetarian bacon bits or a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a meaty taste.
Experiment with the dish by varying the types of potatoes used, such as sweet potatoes or red potatoes, for a unique twist in taste and texture. Additionally, consider adding different herbs like rosemary, thyme, or dill to elevate the dish further. You can also spice it up by including red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for a kick of heat. Serve the dish with a side of crusty bread or cornbread to complement the savory flavors. These variations offer versatility and allow you to customize the recipe to suit your preferences, making it a versatile and adaptable dish for any occasion.
FAQs with Most Commonly Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of meat instead of ham in this recipe?
– Yes, you can substitute ham with other meats like smoked turkey, cooked sausage, or even bacon.
– Feel free to experiment with different proteins to find your favorite flavor combination.
Do I need to precook the ingredients before adding them to the crockpot?
It is not necessary to precook the ham, green beans, or potatoes for this recipe.
– The beauty of using a crockpot is the convenience of tossing everything in and letting it cook slowly throughout the day.
– This helps to infuse the flavors together, resulting in a delicious and easy meal.
It is important to ensure that the ingredients are cooked thoroughly to their recommended safe internal temperatures.
– This is especially crucial for meats to avoid any risk of foodborne illnesses.
– Following the recipe instructions and using a meat thermometer can help ensure everything is cooked properly.
Conclusion
Enhancing Flavors with Slow Cooking
Slow cooking in a crockpot has exceptional benefits when preparing dishes like “Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes.” The slow and gentle cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a dish that is rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying. As the ingredients simmer together for hours, the ham infuses its smoky essence into the tender green beans and potatoes, creating a harmony of tastes that is unmatched. The simplicity of this cooking method belies the depth of flavors it produces, making it a perfect choice for a delicious and hearty meal.
Convenience and Versatility
One of the significant advantages of using a crockpot for dishes like “Crockpot Ham, Green Beans and Potatoes” is the convenience it offers. Once you have all the ingredients in the pot and set the timer, you can leave it unattended, freeing up your time for other tasks. This makes it an excellent option for busy days when you still want a wholesome homemade meal. Additionally, this recipe can easily be customized by adjusting seasonings or adding other vegetables to suit your preferences, making it a versatile choice for any occasion. The ease of preparation and the exceptional results make this dish a favorite for both novice and experienced cooks alike.