Step 1

Chop the onion and garlic. Put the bacon drippings or oil in a large soup pot and heat on medium heat. Saute the onions and garlic in the oil until they are translucent. While the onions are cooking, chop the potatoes into bite sized pieces. If you aren't using left over green beans, then cut the green beans, too.

Step 2

Pour the ham and chicken broths into the pot with the water and bring up to a low boil. Skim any foam that forms at the top of the soup. Add green beans and cook for a few minutes. Then add the potatoes, salt, liquid smoke flavoring and garlic powder. Simmer gently until the potatoes are cooked though. Add the ham and heat through. Adjust the seasonings and serve.