Snap Beans With Mustard And Country Ham Recipes

GREEN BEANS WITH COUNTRY HAM

Steps:

• In a 4 quart (or larger) dutch oven or stock pot, over medium-high heat, add oil or grease and and ham. (If using ham hock, see step 4.)
• Saute for 1 minute, add onion and continue to saute until ham and onions just begin to brown.
• Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
• Quickly add about 2 cups of water to the pot and increase heat to high. (If using ham hock, add now.)
• Add green beans and enough water to cover by at least 1/12 to 2 inches.
• Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low/medium-low, cover and let simmer for 2 hours, checking every 1/2 hour to see if additional water is needed.
• Add 2 teaspoons ham soup base, cover loosely (to allow some evaporation) and simmer 1 to 3 additional hours, occasionally checking liquid level in pot. (Allow liquid level to reduce to just barely covering the beans.)
• Taste beans and add salt and pepper to taste.
• NOTE: Small red potatoes may be added during last 1/2 hour of cooking if desired.
• Cover and refrigerate leftovers.

SNAP BEANS WITH MUSTARD AND COUNTRY HAM

Steps:

• 1. Melt the butter in a large, heavy saucepan over moderate heat, add the ham and scallions, and cook, stirring now and then, for 5 to 8 minutes or until lightly browned.
• 2. Add the beans and broth and bring to a boil. Adjust the heat so the broth bubbles gently, cover, and cook for 12 to 15 minutes or until the beans are crisp-tender.
• 3. Meanwhile, combine the thickener and the mustard and set aside. As soon as the beans are done, whisk a little of the hot broth into the mustard mixture, stir back into the pan, add the pepper, and cook, stirring constantly, for 3 minutes or until the broth thickens. Continue cooking uncovered, stirring occasionally, for 3 to 5 minutes or until the sauce has the consistency of a glaze.
• 4. Taste the beans for salt and pepper, adjust as needed, and serve straightaway.