shelly beans with country ham

How To Make shelly beans with country ham

• Step 1
  In a 4 quart (or larger) dutch oven or stock pot, over medium-high heat, add oil or grease and ham. (If using ham hock, see step 4.)
• 
  Step 2
  Saute for 1 minute, add onion and continue to saute until ham and onions just begin to brown.
• Step 3
  Reduce heat to low, add minced garlic and saute for 30 seconds.
• Step 4
  Quickly add about 2 cups of water to the pot and increase heat to high. (If using ham hock, add now.)
• 
  Step 5
  Add dried beans, green beans and enough water to cover by at least 2 inches.
• Step 6
  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.
• Step 7
  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.)
• Step 8
  Taste beans and add salt and pepper to taste.
• Step 9
  NOTE: Small red potatoes may be added during last 1/2 hour of cooking if desired.
• Step 10
  Cover and refrigerate leftovers.
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