Smoked ham hock beans

Delicious Green Beans with Smoked Ham Recipe

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Green beans with smoked ham are a wonderful choice for a comforting meal, full of delicious flavors and textures. This simple and tasty recipe combines the flavor of smoked ham with the freshness of green beans, bringing together culinary tradition with seasonal ingredients. Perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends, this dish will delight even the most discerning palates.

A bit of history:
Green beans, also known as string beans, have been cultivated for thousands of years, holding a special place in the traditional cuisine of many cultures. Often associated with summer meals and festivities, green beans are appreciated not only for their taste but also for the nutritional benefits they bring. Combined with smoked ham, this dish becomes a true delicacy, rich in protein and vitamins.

Ingredients:
- 1 kg of green beans (preferably fresh, but frozen can also be used)
- 500 g of smoked ham
- 4 cloves of garlic
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley
- Salt – to taste
- Paprika – 1 teaspoon
- Pepper – to taste
- 4 bay leaves
- Vegeta (or another vegetable seasoning) – to taste
- Oil – 2-3 tablespoons

Step by step:

1. Preparing the smoked ham:
Start by placing the smoked ham in a large pot with cold water. Add salt, pepper, bay leaves, and let it boil for about 2 hours. This process will help extract the flavors from the ham and ensure tender, juicy meat.

2. Portioning the ham:
After the ham has boiled, remove it from the pot and let it cool slightly. Once cooled, cut it into suitable portions. Make sure to remove the bones for a pleasant consistency in the dish.

3. Frying the ham:
In a large skillet, add 2-3 tablespoons of oil and, when it is hot, add the portions of ham. Fry them until golden and crispy on the outside, about 5-7 minutes. Season with paprika and pepper to taste to enhance the flavors.

4. Preparing the green beans:
While the ham is frying, take care of the green beans. If using fresh beans, remove the ends and cut them into 4-5 cm pieces. If frozen, you can use them directly from the package. Boil water in another pot, adding salt and vegeta, and blanch the green beans for about 5-7 minutes until they become slightly tender but still crunchy. Drain them well.

5. Sautéing the green beans:
In the same skillet where you fried the ham, add a little oil and minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for a few minutes until golden, being careful not to burn it. Then, add the blanched green beans and mix well. Cover the skillet with a lid and let them cook on low heat for 20 minutes. Gradually add a little water if necessary to prevent sticking.

6. Finalizing the dish:
Finally, add the chopped fresh parsley and mix well. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Your green beans with smoked ham are now ready to be served!

Serving suggestions:
This dish is served hot, alongside a fresh salad or mashed potatoes. A glass of dry white wine or a light beer would perfectly complement the meal, adding an extra layer of flavor.

Nutritional information and calories:
A serving of green beans with smoked ham contains approximately 450 calories, being rich in protein due to the ham, as well as vitamins and fiber from the beans. It is also an excellent option for a hearty meal that combines health with taste.

Possible variations:
For a special touch, you can add some halved cherry tomatoes or black olives, which will provide a contrast of flavors. Additionally, if you prefer a spicier dish, you can add chili flakes during the frying of the ham.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use fresh ham?
Yes, you can use fresh ham, but the cooking time should be longer, around 3 hours.

2. What can I do with leftover ham?
Leftovers can be used to make soups, stews, or delicious sandwiches.

3. How can I store the green beans?
Cooked green beans can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days.

4. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
This recipe is not vegan, but you can replace the ham with a smoked soy product or a vegetable mix for a vegetarian version.

Now that you have discovered this simple yet delicious green beans with smoked ham recipe, don't hesitate to try it! Enjoy every step and the aroma that will fill your kitchen. Bon appétit!