Step 1

Place ham in a large pot with lid, cover with water, and bring to boil. Reduce to simmer and cook 1-1/2 to 2 hours to get nicely tender ham and a rich broth. Ham hocks may take longer to cook to fall-apart tender, but that is the stage you want them at.

Step 2

Remove ham from pot, set aside, and allow to cool enough to handle. When cool, pull ham from bone and cut into chunks or pull into shreds.

Step 3

Taste broth. You want a nice rich broth, if necessary, add some ham bouillon to enrich to your taste.

Step 4

Place chunks of ham, diced onion, green beans, and potatoes into pot with broth and bring to boil. Reduce to simmer and cook slowly until beans and potatoes are very tender, about 45 minutes to an hour.

Step 5

Serve in bowls with plenty of broth and, if desired, vinegar on the side to add to taste.