Beans with ham

Green Bean with Ham – A Delicious and Satisfying Recipe

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Cooking time: 40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Number of servings: 4

Introduction

Green beans with ham is a traditional recipe that brings a touch of warmth and comfort to every plate. This savory dish combines the crisp texture of green beans with the rich flavor of ham, offering a perfect mix of tastes and nutrients. Over time, beans have been appreciated not only for their versatility in the kitchen but also for their nutritional benefits. They are an excellent source of plant-based protein, fiber, and vitamins, making this recipe an ideal choice for family meals.

Ingredients

- 500 g green or yellow beans (preferably fresh, but frozen can also be used)
- 1 medium onion (about 150 g)
- 200 g ham (choose a high-quality ham for a more intense flavor)
- 1 tablespoon lard (or olive oil for a healthier option)
- 50 g grated carrot (for added sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon broth (or tomato paste)
- 1 tablespoon flour (to thicken the sauce)
- Spices: pepper, basil, hot paprika, herbs de Provence (or whatever you have on hand)
- A bunch of fresh dill (for a fragrant finish)

Step by Step

1. Prepare the ingredients

Start by washing the beans thoroughly. If using fresh beans, trim the ends and remove the side strings. If frozen, no further preparation is needed. Peel and finely chop the onion. Grate the carrot to release its natural sweetness. Cut the ham into cubes or strips, according to your preference.

2. Sauté the vegetables

In a large skillet or pot, heat the lard over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and let it sauté for about 5 minutes until it becomes translucent. This step is essential for developing the base flavor of the dish. Add the grated carrot and continue cooking for another 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally.

3. Add the ham

Once the onion and carrot have softened, add the ham to the skillet. Let it fry for 5-7 minutes until it becomes slightly crispy and releases its flavors. This is when everything starts to smell divine!

4. Season

After the ham has fried, add the spices: pepper, basil, hot paprika, and herbs de Provence. Mix well to combine the flavors. Adding the spices is crucial to give depth and complexity to your dish.

5. Add the broth and water

Pour the broth and enough water to cover the ingredients over the vegetable and ham mixture. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

6. Add the beans

After the 5 minutes of boiling, add the beans to the pot. Stir well and let everything simmer over medium heat for about 15-20 minutes until the beans are tender but still retain a crisp texture.

7. Thicken the sauce

In a small bowl, dissolve the flour in a little water, stirring well to avoid lumps. Add the mixture to the pot, stirring constantly. Let it boil for another 5 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes creamy.

8. Finish the dish

Once the beans are cooked and the sauce has the desired consistency, add the chopped fresh dill. Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes to allow the flavors to settle.

Serving Suggestions

Green beans with ham are served hot, alongside fresh bread or polenta, which will absorb the delicious sauce. A fresh green salad can perfectly complement this dish, providing a crunchy and refreshing contrast.

Variations

If you want to experiment, you can add other vegetables, such as potatoes or zucchini, to enrich the dish. You can also replace the ham with slices of sausage or bacon for a smoky flavor.

Nutritional Benefits

Beans are rich in fiber, which helps maintain digestive health. They also contain plant-based protein, vitamins A and C, as well as minerals such as potassium and iron. Ham provides a high-quality protein source, but it is important to choose a low-fat option.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned beans?
Yes, you can use canned beans, but make sure to rinse them well before adding them to the dish to eliminate excess sodium.

2. What is the best type of ham for this recipe?
Smoked or homemade ham offers a more intense flavor, but you can also use fresh ham, depending on your preferences.

3. How can I store leftovers?
Green beans with ham store well in the refrigerator for 2-3 days in an airtight container. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop.

Conclusion

This green beans with ham recipe is not only delicious but also easy to prepare, perfect for a family dinner or a meal with friends. With its rich flavors and satisfying consistency, it is sure to become a favorite at your table. I wish you success in the kitchen and bon appétit!

 Ingredients: 500g green or yellow beans, 1 medium onion, 200g ham, 1 tablespoon lard, 50g grated carrot, 1 tablespoon flour, spices (pepper, basil, hot paprika, herbs de Provence), 1 bunch of dill.