Step 1

Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven over medium heat. Sauté onion and garlic until just softened, about five minutes.

Step 2

Add in the green beans, broth, and ham hock. Add water until it just covers the beans. Bring to a boil and then reduce heat and simmer for 35-45 minutes, or until the cooking liquid turns a deep green/brown and beans are well-done.

Step 3

20 minutes into simmering, add potatoes and additional ham, if using.

Step 4

Remove ham hock or ham bone, chop ham off the bone, and return to the pot—discarding the bone. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 5

Serve by straining cooking liquid using a slotted spoon.