Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans
Slow Cooker Amish Ham and Green Beans
Few meals are as comforting as one that quietly cooks throughout the day. As the hours pass, the scent of smoky ham, tender vegetables, and savory broth fills the house, creating a meal that feels both nourishing and welcoming. With minimal preparation, this traditional slow cooker recipe delivers a hearty dinner the whole family can enjoy.
A longtime favorite in Pennsylvania Dutch kitchens, Amish Ham and Green Beans is a simple dish built on wholesome ingredients and slow cooking. The result is flavorful, economical, and wonderfully satisfying.
Slow Cooker Amish Ham & Green Beans
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Ham hocks, ham shanks, or leftover ham | 1 lb (450 g) | Smoked ham provides the best flavor |
| Green beans | 1 lb | Trimmed and cut into pieces |
| Small potatoes | 1 lb | Halved or quartered |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 4 cups | Low-sodium recommended |
| Onion | 1 medium | Chopped |
| Garlic | 2 cloves | Minced |
| Black pepper | ½ tsp | Adjust to taste |
| Apple cider vinegar | 1 tbsp | Optional for added brightness |
Ingredient Alternatives
- Replace ham hocks with a ham bone, diced ham steak, or smoked turkey wings.
- Frozen green beans can be used in place of fresh. Canned beans may also work; simply drain them first and reduce cooking time if necessary.
- Swap potatoes for carrots, sweet potatoes, or other root vegetables.
- If broth is unavailable, combine water with 2 teaspoons of bouillon.
- Additional vegetables such as celery, turnips, or carrots can be added for extra flavor and texture.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Wash and trim the green beans, then cut them into bite-sized pieces. Scrub the potatoes and cut them into halves or quarters. Chop the onion and mince the garlic.
Step 2: Fill the Slow Cooker
Place the ham in the bottom of the slow cooker. Add the green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic over the top.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Pour the broth over the ingredients. Sprinkle with black pepper and add the apple cider vinegar, if desired. Stir lightly to combine.
Tip: Wait until the end of cooking before adding salt, as the ham will naturally season the dish.
Step 4: Slow Cook
Cover and cook until everything is tender:
- Low: 6–8 hours
- High: 3–4 hours
The ham should be very tender, and the potatoes should easily pierce with a fork.
Step 5: Shred the Ham
If using ham hocks or a ham bone, remove them from the cooker. Allow them to cool slightly, then separate the meat from the bones. Discard the bones and return the meat to the slow cooker.
Step 6: Final Seasoning
Taste the broth and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add salt only if necessary. Extra pepper or a splash of vinegar can enhance the flavors.
Step 7: Serve
Spoon the ham, vegetables, and broth into bowls and serve hot. This meal pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, cornbread, coleslaw, or pickled vegetables.
A Comforting Classic
This traditional slow cooker meal proves that a handful of everyday ingredients can create a rich, satisfying dish when given time to cook slowly. It’s simple home cooking at its best.
