How To Make Ham And String Beans

How to Make Ham and String Beans

Learning how to make ham and string beans is one of the easiest and most rewarding things you can do in your kitchen.
 
If you’ve been wondering how to make ham and string beans that taste like grandma used to make, you’re in the right place.
 
This classic Southern comfort dish comes together with just a handful of ingredients and a whole lot of patience.
 
Knowing how to make ham and string beans means you’ll never have to rely on canned versions again.
 
The key is letting everything simmer low and slow so the beans soak up all that smoky, savory flavor.
 
Let’s walk through exactly how to make ham and string beans step by step.
 

Ingredients for Ham and String Beans

Before you learn how to make ham and string beans, gather everything first.
 
Here’s what you’ll need to make ham and string beans for a family of four to six.
 

1. Fresh or Frozen String Beans

You’ll need about two pounds of fresh string beans, also called green beans.
 
If fresh isn’t available, frozen works fine when you make ham and string beans.
 
Just avoid canned beans because they turn to mush when you make ham and string beans this way.
 

2. Ham Hocks, Ham Shanks, or Leftover Ham

Ham hocks are the traditional choice when you make ham and string beans.
 
You can also use ham shanks, smoked turkey wings, or leftover holiday ham.
 
About one to two pounds of smoked ham gives the beans that deep flavor.
 

3. Onion, Garlic, and Seasonings

One yellow onion and a few cloves of garlic build the base when you make ham and string beans.
 
Add black pepper, a pinch of red pepper flakes, and a bay leaf.
 
Go easy on the salt since the ham is already salty.
 

4. Water or Chicken Broth

You’ll need enough liquid to cover the beans when you make ham and string beans.
 
Water works, but chicken broth adds another layer of flavor.
 

How to Make Ham and String Beans Step by Step

Now let’s get into the actual process of how to make ham and string beans.
 
Follow these steps and you’ll nail it every time.
 

1. Prep the String Beans

Start by rinsing your string beans and snapping off the ends.
 
If you’re using fresh beans, snap them in half so they fit nicely on a spoon.
 
This little step makes a big difference when you make ham and string beans.
 

2. Brown the Ham

In a large pot, sear your ham hocks or ham pieces over medium heat.
 
You want a little color on them before you make ham and string beans.
 
This browning adds richness that you just can’t get otherwise.
 

3. Add Aromatics and Liquid

Toss in your chopped onion and garlic and stir for a minute.
 
Pour in enough water or broth to cover everything by about an inch.
 
Add your seasonings now so the flavors develop as you make ham and string beans.
 

4. Simmer Low and Slow

Bring everything to a boil, then reduce to a low simmer.
 
Cover the pot and let the ham cook for about an hour before adding the beans.
 
This is the secret to how to make ham and string beans taste incredible.
 

5. Add the String Beans

After the ham has simmered, add your string beans to the pot.
 
Stir them in, cover, and simmer for another 45 minutes to an hour.
 
The longer they cook, the more flavor they absorb when you make ham and string beans.
 

6. Taste and Adjust

Once the beans are tender, taste the broth.
 
Add more pepper or a splash of hot sauce if needed.
 
Then you’re done learning how to make ham and string beans.
 

Tips for the Best Ham and String Beans

A few extra tips will help you make ham and string beans like a pro.
 

1. Don’t Rush the Simmer

The biggest mistake people make with how to make ham and string beans is rushing it.
 
Low and slow is the only way to get that deep, smoky taste.
 

2. Save the Pot Likker

That savory broth left in the pot is called pot likker.
 
Serve it over cornbread or rice when you make ham and string beans.
 
It’s honestly the best part.
 

3. Make a Big Batch

When you make ham and string beans, always make more than you think you need.
 
They taste even better the next day.
 

So, How Do You Make Ham and String Beans?

You make ham and string beans by simmering smoked ham with fresh string beans, onion, garlic, and seasonings low and slow until everything is tender and full of flavor.
 
Once you know how to make ham and string beans, it becomes a go-to meal you’ll come back to again and again.
 
So grab your pot and give this recipe a try.
 
You’ll be glad you learned how to make ham and string beans.