Savory Ham and Herb Potato Medley
This hearty Savory Ham and Herb Potato Medley is a cherished dish passed down through generations. Inspired by my Mother-in-law, who skillfully managed a bustling household of nine children and dedicated 40 years to teaching, this recipe is designed for those who want a nutritious and satisfying meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of tender red potatoes, vibrant green beans, and savory ham creates a warm and comforting flavor profile. For an added twist, I discovered that substituting the traditional broth with a packet of Lipton's Garlic and Herb soup mix elevates the dish’s richness, making it a beloved favorite among my children. Enjoy this delightful dish with fresh sliced tomatoes and cornbread for a complete Southern dining experience.
8
Servings
N/A
Calories
7
Ingredients
Ingredients
red potatoes
8 (scrubbed and halved)
frozen green beans
1 (16 ounce) package (or fresh)
large onion
1 (cut into about eight wedges)
ham
2 cups (cut into bite-sized pieces)
vegetable or chicken broth
enough to cover
salt
to taste
pepper
to taste
Instructions
1
For a deliciously slow-cooked flavor, place all the ingredients into a crockpot. Cover and cook on low for 8 to 10 hours.
2
If you prefer cooking on the stove, transfer the ingredients into a dutch oven. You may need to add additional broth to prevent drying out.
3
Check the consistency and richness of the broth before serving; adjust salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
4
For a perfect accompaniment, serve with fresh sliced tomatoes and homemade cornbread.
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Ham and Herb Potato Medley?
It is a hearty dish featuring tender red potatoes, green beans, and savory ham, inspired by a traditional Southern family recipe.
Who inspired this recipe?
This recipe was inspired by the creator's mother-in-law, who was a teacher for 40 years and raised nine children.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe yields approximately 8 servings.
What kind of potatoes should I use?
The recipe calls for 8 red potatoes.
Do I need to peel the red potatoes?
No, the recipe suggests scrubbing them and halving them, leaving the skins on for the medley.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Yes, you can use either a 16-ounce package of frozen green beans or an equivalent amount of fresh green beans.
How should the onion be prepared?
One large onion should be cut into approximately eight wedges.
How much ham is required for this dish?
You will need 2 cups of ham, cut into bite-sized pieces.
What type of broth works best?
You can use either vegetable or chicken broth, adding enough to cover the ingredients.
What is the recommended cooking time for a crockpot?
For a deliciously slow-cooked flavor, cover and cook the ingredients on low for 8 to 10 hours.
Can I cook this on the stove?
Yes, you can transfer the ingredients into a Dutch oven and cook on the stove, though you may need extra broth.
What special ingredient can be used instead of broth?
You can substitute the traditional broth with a packet of Lipton's Garlic and Herb soup mix for added richness.
Why use Lipton's Garlic and Herb soup mix?
This substitution elevates the dish's richness and is a favorite variation among children.
How do I prevent the dish from drying out on the stove?
When using a Dutch oven on the stove, add additional broth as needed to maintain the liquid level.
What are the best side dishes for this meal?
It is traditionally served with fresh sliced tomatoes and homemade cornbread for a complete Southern experience.
Is this recipe suitable for large families?
Yes, it was originally designed for a busy household of nine children and provides a nutritious, satisfying meal.
How should I adjust the seasoning?
Add salt and pepper to taste, and check the richness of the broth before serving.
What is the preparation method for the ham?
The ham should be cut into bite-sized pieces before being added to the medley.
What makes this recipe 'Southern'?
Its combination of ham, potatoes, and green beans, along with the suggested sides of cornbread and tomatoes, is a classic Southern dining profile.
Can I use vegetable broth?
Yes, vegetable broth is a perfectly suitable option for the liquid base of this recipe.
Can I use chicken broth?
Yes, chicken broth is a common choice that provides a savory depth to the potatoes and beans.
Is this considered a comfort food?
Yes, it is described as a warm and comforting dish that is a beloved family favorite.
What should I check before serving?
You should check the consistency and richness of the broth and adjust the seasoning to your preference.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 7 main ingredients: red potatoes, green beans, onion, ham, broth, salt, and pepper.
What category does this recipe fall under?
This recipe is categorized under 'Ham' dishes.
What size package of green beans is needed?
The recipe suggests one 16-ounce package if using frozen green beans.
How many onion wedges should I cut?
The recipe recommends cutting one large onion into about eight wedges.
Is this recipe easy to make?
Yes, it is designed for those who want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen, especially when using a crockpot.
What is the texture of the potatoes after cooking?
After slow cooking, the red potatoes become tender and flavorful.
Can this dish be prepared in advance?
Since it is a slow-cooker meal that takes 8-10 hours, it is ideal for starting in the morning to have ready for dinner.