Better Than Grandma’s PA Dutch Ham and String Bean Soup
- DFDairy-Free
- GFGluten-Free
- SFSugar Free
This is my PA Dutch grandmother’s recipe for ham and string "green" bean soup that brings back fond memories of Sunday family gatherings. It is a childhood favorite recipe and passed down tried and true staple of the Pennsylvania Dutch. After all these years, I think I have perfected this wonderful recipe to share, from my family to yours!
Ingredients
- 1 pound of ham, diced (you can use a ham hock or leftover ham)
- 1 pound of fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into 1-inch pieces
- 4 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 large onion, chopped
- 3 cloves of garlic, minced
- 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar, plus extra for serving depending on taste preference
- 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- 1 teaspoon of thyme
- salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Start by preparing all your ingredients. Dice the ham, trim and cut the green beans, peel and dice the potatoes, and chop the onion and garlic.
- Layer in Crockpot: Place the ham at the bottom of the crockpot. Place the green beans, potatoes, onion, and garlic on top.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth over the ingredients in the crockpot. Add the parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Cook: Cover the crockpot and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. The soup is ready when the potatoes are tender and the flavors have melded together.
- Adjust Seasoning: Before serving, taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Add more salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy it warm. It pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or rolls. **Serve with apple cider vinegar on the table so everyone can adjust to their own individual tastes.
Notes
**To cook Ham and String Bean Soup on the stovetop, follow these general guidelines for cooking time: Place all ingredients into a large pot. Begin by sautéing onion and garlic, last pour over broth and bring to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pot and let the soup cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the potatoes and green beans are tender. **This method allows you to enjoy a delicious pot of Ham and String Bean Soup in under an hour, making it a great option for a hearty weeknight meal. Enjoy!