Southern Green Beans and Smoked Ham Hocks | Green Bean Recipe | The Southern Mountain Kitchen

smoked ham hocks

🥗Healthier: turkey ham

💰Cheaper: pork shoulder

Turkey ham reduces fat while maintaining flavor.

chicken broth

🥗Healthier: vegetable broth

💰Cheaper: water + bouillon

Vegetable broth is lower in calories and suitable for vegetarians.

olive oil

🥗Healthier: avocado oil

💰Cheaper: canola oil

Avocado oil offers a similar flavor profile with a higher smoke point.

vinegar

🥗Healthier: citrus juice

💰Cheaper: apple cider vinegar

Citrus juice adds brightness and acidity.

Break off the ends of the fresh green beans, discarding the tips.

Optionally, break the green beans into smaller pieces if desired.

Chop 3 green onions into small bits.

Chop 1 medium onion into small pieces.

In a large pot, add 3 cups of water.

Add 3 smoked ham hocks to the pot.

Add both the chopped green onions and the chopped medium onion to the pot.

Add the green beans to the pot.

Add 1 tablespoon of minced garlic to the pot.

Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1 teaspoon of black pepper to the pot.

Stir the contents of the pot to mix the ingredients and seasonings.

Cook on medium heat for at least 3 hours, stirring periodically to ensure even cooking and moisture distribution.

Cover the pot while cooking, allowing the steam to help cook the green beans without making them mushy.

Cooking Techniques

Equipment Needed

Spice Level: