Southern Style Green Beans and New Potatoes really aren't an exact science. The recipe varies a lot from family to family, so it's really a matter of taste. If you like more potatoes, more ham, add it.
If you would rather use salt pork, bacon or pork belly, that's fine, too. It's all up to you. This is my version, like my southern mom's and grandmother's before that. Hope you enjoy!
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons butter
1 onion, diced or chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 pound hams pieces,bacon or salt pork
2 to 3 pounds of fresh green beans, ends and strings removed and snapped, if desired
3 cans chicken or vegetable broth
3 cans water (use a broth can : D)
8 or more, baby red or new potatoes, pealed a strip around center of potatoes
1 tablespoons sugar (Yes, I said sugar. It takes away...well, I don't know. Just do it!)
Kosher salt and pepper to taste
Directions:
In a large heavy stock pot, melt the butter on medium high. Add onions and garlic and meat. Cook until onions and garlic are tender and meat has browned a bit. Turn down the heat to medium and add green beans, broth and water. Just cover the beans with the liquid. If you need a bit more water, add it. Cook beans covered for 35 to 40 minutes. Add, sugar, salt and pepper. Stir well. Add potatoes and cook covered for another 25 to 35 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork tender. Remove lid for the last 10 minutes of cook time. Check and re-season if necessary.
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