Step 1

Place the ham hock in a large soup pot or Dutch oven and cover with water (about 6-8 cups). Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce to a simmer and cook for 2-3 hours, until the meat is coming off the bone.

Step 2

Remove the ham hock from the broth and let cool slightly. Remove the bone and fat and shred/chop the meat into bite-sized pieces.

Step 3

Season the broth with salt and pepper. Return the meat to the pot along with the potatoes (if you are using fresh green beans add them as well). Bring back to a boil.

Step 4

Reduce the heat to a simmer (add frozen green beans at this time). Cook until the beans and potatoes are tender.

Step 5

Ladle into bowls and serve.