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Green Beans and Ham Hocks: A Southern Comfort Classic

The first time I tasted green beans cooked with ham hocks, I was at my grandmother’s small, sun-drenched kitchen table. The air hung thick with the scent of woodsmoke and simmering pork. Nana, a woman who could coax flavor out of anything, ladled a generous portion into my bowl. The green beans, impossibly tender, mingled with the rich, smoky broth and succulent shreds of ham. It was more than just a meal; it was a taste of home, a warm hug on a plate, and a memory I cherish to this day. That humble bowl sparked a lifelong love affair with this incredibly simple, yet profoundly satisfying dish.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time (Crockpot): 5-6 hours
Cook Time (Stovetop): 5-6 hours
Total Time (Crockpot): 5 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
Total Time (Stovetop): 5 hours 15 minutes – 6 hours 15 minutes
Servings: 4-5
Dietary Type: Not Gluten-Free

Ingredients

1 lb green beans
2-3 smoked ham hocks or 2-3 smoked pork shanks
1 (12 ounce) can beer
1 can chicken broth

Equipment Needed

Crockpot (3.5 quart or larger) or Large Pot
Knife
Cutting Board

Instructions

Begin by preparing the green beans. Wash them thoroughly under cold water. Then, snap or cut the green beans into approximately 1-inch pieces. This makes them easier to eat and helps them cook evenly.
Rinse the cut green beans again with cold water. This helps remove any lingering dirt or debris. Place the rinsed green beans in either your crockpot or a large pot, depending on your preferred cooking method.
Now, prepare the ham hocks or pork shanks. Using a sharp knife, carefully trim away the outer skin and any excess fat from the ham hocks/shanks. While some fat is desirable for flavor, too much can make the dish greasy.
Cut the ham hocks/shanks into smaller pieces if possible. Work around the bones, but do not remove them. The bones add significant flavor to the broth as they cook.
Place the trimmed and cut ham hocks/shanks into the crockpot/pot with the green beans. Mix well to distribute the ham hocks/shanks evenly among the green beans.
Pour the 12-ounce can of beer and the can of chicken broth into the crockpot/pot. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the green beans and ham hocks/shanks are well coated in the liquid.
Crockpot Method: Cover the crockpot and cook on high for 5-6 hours. Cooking time may vary depending on your specific crockpot.
Stovetop Method: Cover the pot and cook on high heat until the mixture comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and simmer for 5-6 hours.
Regardless of the cooking method, the longer these cook, the better they taste! The extended cooking time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. The green beans should be very tender.
Once cooked to your liking, serve the green beans and ham hocks/shanks in bowls. Be sure to include some of the flavorful broth!

Expert Tips & Tricks

Don’t be afraid to experiment with different beers. A darker beer, like a stout or porter, will impart a richer, more robust flavor. A lighter beer, like a lager or pilsner, will offer a more subtle sweetness.
For added depth of flavor, consider browning the ham hocks/shanks in a skillet before adding them to the crockpot or pot. This will create a delicious crust and enhance the smoky flavor.
If you prefer a thicker broth, you can add a tablespoon of cornstarch or flour to a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Stir the slurry into the crockpot or pot during the last hour of cooking.
If you want to add other vegetables, do so during the last 2 hours of cooking. Good additions include potatoes, carrots, or onions. Be mindful that you will need to add more broth if you add more vegetables.
Don’t add any salt until the very end of cooking. Ham hocks/shanks are already quite salty, and the cooking process will concentrate the saltiness of the broth. Taste before adding any additional salt.
If you want to enhance the smoky flavor, you could consider adding a teaspoon of liquid smoke.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This dish is fantastic served on its own as a hearty meal, especially alongside a warm piece of cornbread to soak up the flavorful broth. It also makes a wonderful side dish to accompany grilled meats, roasted chicken, or even fish.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm on the stovetop over medium heat or in the microwave until heated through. You may need to add a little water or broth if the mixture has thickened too much during storage.

For longer storage, the dish can be frozen for up to 2-3 months. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container or bag. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Information

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	250 kcal	13%
Total Fat	12g	18%
Saturated Fat	4g	20%
Cholesterol	40mg	13%
Sodium	800mg	35%
Total Carbohydrate	15g	5%
Dietary Fiber	5g	20%
Sugars	4g	N/A
Protein	20g	40%

Variations & Substitutions

Vegetarian Version: For a vegetarian alternative, use smoked paprika and vegetable broth to mimic the smoky flavor. Add a can of white beans or butter beans for added heartiness and protein. Consider adding a smoked vegan ham substitute, if desired.
Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño pepper to the crockpot or pot for a spicy kick.
Smoked Turkey Necks: Substitute the ham hocks with smoked turkey necks for a lighter flavor profile.
Different Broth: Use beef broth instead of chicken broth for a richer, meatier flavor.
Add Smoked Sausage: Adding sliced smoked sausage at the same time as the other meat will add another level of flavor to the dish.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I use frozen green beans?
A: Yes, frozen green beans can be used, but fresh green beans will provide a better texture and flavor. If using frozen, add them during the last 2-3 hours of cooking.

Q: Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
A: Yes, you can. Use the pressure cook function on high for about 45 minutes, followed by a natural pressure release for 15 minutes.

Q: Can I skip the beer?
A: Yes, you can substitute the beer with an equal amount of chicken broth or water. The beer adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor, but it’s not essential.

Q: How do I know when the ham hocks are done?
A: The ham hocks are done when the meat is very tender and easily pulls away from the bone.

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes, this dish is even better the next day! The flavors meld together even more after sitting in the refrigerator overnight. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly before serving.

Final Thoughts

This recipe for green beans and ham hocks is more than just a collection of ingredients and instructions; it’s a celebration of simple, soulful cooking. It’s a dish that nourishes the body and comforts the soul, a taste of Southern hospitality that can be enjoyed anywhere. So, gather your ingredients, embrace the slow simmer, and prepare to be transported to a place of warmth, comfort, and deliciousness. Don’t hesitate to adjust the recipe to your liking, and please, share your experiences! I’d love to hear how this dish becomes a part of your own culinary story. Pair this delightful dish with some freshly baked cornbread for the ultimate comfort food experience.

Green Beans and Ham Hocks Recipe