Old Fashioned Southern Style Green Beans
User Reviews
4.9
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Prep Time
20 mins
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Cook Time
2 hrs
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Total Time
2 hrs 20 mins
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Servings
6 servings
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Calories
261 kcal
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Cuisine
American, Vegetarian
Old Fashioned Southern Style Green Beans
Description
This recipe starts by simmering smoked ham hocks in water to develop a smoky, meaty broth. Once the broth is rich, fresh green beans trimmed and cut into two-inch pieces are added along with salt, then cooked slowly until soft and tender. The ham hocks are removed, shredded, and returned to the pot, distributing the smoky meat throughout the beans.
The green beans absorb the smoky essence from the ham hock, resulting in a comforting, flavorful dish where the beans are tender without being mushy. The shredded meat adds heartiness and texture contrast.
This dish pairs well with classic Southern meals and provides a satisfying vegetable side enhanced with smoked meat flavors. Leftovers can be stored and reheated on the stovetop or in a slow cooker to preserve texture and flavor.
You may substitute the ham hock with equal amounts of bacon, smoked turkey wings, or smoked turkey legs for different smoky nuances. Green beans can be prepped a day ahead and kept refrigerated to save time on cooking day.
Ingredients
- 1 pound smoked ham hock or equal weight of bacon, smoked turkey wings, or smoked turkey legs
- 3 pounds Green bean washed, trimmed and cut in 2” pieces, fresh
- 2 teaspoons salt
Instructions
- Place the ham hocks (or other choice of seasoning meat) in a large pot with just enough water to cover. Bring to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer. Cover and cook for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- While the ham hock simmers, prepare the green beans by removing the “tips and tails.” Snap the beans into approximately 2" pieces or leave whole if desired.
- Add the beans and salt to the pot. Bring the contents to a boil, then lower the heat to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for 1 hour or until the beans are tender.
- Remove the ham hocks to a plate and allow to cool for a few minutes.
- Remove and shred the meat from the ham hock, discarding the skin and bones. Add the shredded meat back to the pot and stir it into the beans.
Notes
- Bacon, smoked turkey wings, or smoked turkey legs can replace ham hocks for alternative smoky flavors.
- Green beans can be cleaned and trimmed up to 24 hours before cooking; store in the refrigerator.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop or in a slow cooker.
Nutrition Information
Show DetailsNutrition Facts
Serving: 6servings
Amount Per Serving
Calories 261 kcal
% Daily Value*
| Serving | 1 | |
| Calories | 261kcal | 13% |
| Carbohydrates | 16g | 5% |
| Protein | 20g | 40% |
| Fat | 14g | 22% |
| Saturated Fat | 5g | 25% |
| Cholesterol | 63mg | 21% |
| Sodium | 934mg | 39% |
| Potassium | 692mg | 15% |
| Fiber | 6g | 24% |
| Sugar | 7g | 14% |
| Vitamin A | 1565IU | 31% |
| Vitamin C | 28mg | 31% |
| Calcium | 96mg | 10% |
| Iron | 3mg | 17% |
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
User Reviews
Overall Rating
4.9
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