Cooking up a storm doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. This potatoes, green beans, and ham recipe is your ticket to a hearty, flavorful meal that brings comfort to your table with minimal fuss. Perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends, it’s a dish that promises satisfaction in every bite.
Why This Recipe Works
- One-Pot Simplicity: Everything cooks together in one pot, meaning less cleanup and more flavor as the ingredients meld beautifully.
- Versatile Ingredients: Potatoes, green beans, and ham are a classic trio that can be adapted based on what you have in your pantry or fridge.
- Comfort Food at Its Best: This dish is the epitome of comfort food, offering a balanced meal that’s both nutritious and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cups diced ham (about 1/2 inch pieces)
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed and halved
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and cubed into 1-inch pieces
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
Equipment Needed
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring cups and spoons
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until they’re soft and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. This builds a flavor foundation for your dish. Tip: Don’t rush this step; letting the onions become translucent is key to unlocking their sweetness.
Step 2: Brown the Ham
Add the diced ham to the pot, stirring occasionally to let it brown slightly, about 5 minutes. The browning adds depth to the ham’s flavor, making it more than just a supporting actor in this dish.
Step 3: Add Potatoes and Seasonings
Toss in the cubed potatoes, salt, pepper, and dried thyme, stirring to coat everything evenly. The potatoes will start to soak up all the delicious flavors in the pot. Tip: For an extra flavor boost, you can add a bay leaf at this stage, just remember to remove it before serving.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Simmer
Add the chicken broth, bringing the mixture to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to a simmer, cover, and let it cook for about 15 minutes. The potatoes should start to become tender but not mushy.
Step 5: Add Green Beans and Finish Cooking
Stir in the green beans, cover, and continue to simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still vibrant. Tip: For crisper green beans, add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Tips and Tricks
This section is dedicated to those little nuggets of wisdom that can take your dish from good to great. First, consider using a smoked ham for an added layer of flavor. Second, if you’re in a pinch, frozen green beans can be a decent substitute for fresh, just adjust the cooking time accordingly. Third, for a thicker broth, you can mash a few of the potatoes against the side of the pot before adding the green beans. Lastly, this dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have more time to meld.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Twist: Omit the ham and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms or tofu for protein.
- Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a diced jalapeño when sautéing the onions for some heat.
- Creamy Version: Stir in a half cup of heavy cream or coconut milk during the last few minutes of cooking for a richer dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use canned green beans, but keep in mind they’re already cooked, so add them during the last 5 minutes of cooking to prevent them from becoming too soft. Drain and rinse them before adding to the pot to reduce the sodium content.
How can I make this dish lower in sodium?
Opt for low-sodium chicken broth and ham. You can also reduce the amount of added salt or omit it entirely, relying on the natural flavors of the ingredients and herbs for taste.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! This dish freezes well. Just cool it completely before transferring to airtight containers. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stove or in the microwave.
Summary
This potatoes, green beans, and ham recipe is a testament to the beauty of simple, hearty meals. With minimal prep and one-pot convenience, it’s a versatile dish that can be adapted to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry. Perfect for any day of the week, it promises comfort and satisfaction in every bite.