Green Beans, Pears, and Ham

1. 1

   Put the butter in a large deep skillet over medium-high heat.

2. 2

   When hot, add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5 minutes.

3. 3

   Meanwhile, cut the ham into 1/2-inch chunks.

4. 4

   Add it and raise the heat to high.

5. 5

   While the ham cooksstir it occasionally, but let it brown a bit on the bottompeel and core the pears and cut them into 1-inch chunks.

6. 6

   Lower the heat to medium and add them to the pan; stir occasionally.

7. 7

   Trim the beans, cut them into roughly 2-inch lengths, rinse them quickly, and add them to the skillet along with a sprinkling of salt and at least 1/2 teaspoon pepper.

8. 8

   Cook for a minute, then raise the heat to medium-high, add the chicken stock, and stir.

9. 9

   Cook, stirring occasionally, until the beans are bright green and semitender, the pears are quite tender, and the liquid so reduced that it is essentially a sauce, 10 to 15 minutes.

10. 10

    Taste, adjust the seasoning, and serve.

* Per serving · 4 servings · Values may vary.