arkansas green beans recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best arkansas green beans recipe

I’m so excited to share with you my family’s favorite Arkansas green beans recipe. This dish is a staple in our household, and I’m sure it will become one in yours too. I remember my grandmother making it for me when I was a kid, and now I make it for my own children.

It’s a simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a family gathering or just a quick weeknight meal. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make and requires minimal ingredients, making it a great option for busy families like mine.

Growing up in the South, I was exposed to all sorts of delicious Southern cuisine, but there’s something special about Arkansas green beans that just can’t be beat. Maybe it’s the combination of tender green beans, crispy bacon, and a tangy vinegar-based sauce that all come together to create this perfect harmony of flavors. Whatever the reason, this recipe has been a hit with my family for years, and I know it will be with yours too.

One of the things I love most about this recipe is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a side dish alongside some good ol’ fashioned Southern comfort food, or use it as a main course for a light and easy meal. And don’t even get me started on how well it freezes – just toss the cooked green beans into an airtight container or freezer bag and you’re good to go for up to 3 months!

The possibilities are endless with this recipe. If you’re looking for a way to add some excitement to your usual veggie routine, look no further than this Arkansas green beans recipe. With its unique blend of flavors and textures, you’ll be hooked from the very first bite.

And trust me, your family will thank you for introducing them to this tasty twist on traditional green beans. As much as I love trying new recipes, there’s something comforting about coming back to familiar favorites like this one. It’s like being wrapped in a warm hug – you know exactly what to expect, and that predictability is reassuring in these uncertain times.

Arkansas Green Beans

Arkansas Green Beans

4.9 from 656 votes

Arkansas green beans are a savory, Southern-style side dish featuring canned green beans slow-cooked with bacon, butter, and brown sugar. The combination of salty bacon and sweet brown sugar creates a rich, caramelized glaze that transforms simple ingredients into a comforting classic.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 220 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

4 cans (14.5 oz each) cut green beans, drained
6 slices bacon, chopped
1/2 cup unsalted butter
1/2 cup packed brown sugar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 cloves garlic, minced
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy, about 6 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered fat in the pan.
3Add the butter to the bacon fat and let it melt over medium heat.
4Stir in the brown sugar, soy sauce, and minced garlic, then cook for 1 to 2 minutes until the sugar dissolves and the mixture is bubbly and fragrant.
5Add the drained green beans to the skillet and toss well to coat with the sauce.
6Cook over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are tender and the sauce has thickened to a glossy glaze.
7Sprinkle the cooked bacon over the green beans and stir gently to combine.
8Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot, garnished with additional black pepper if desired.

🔧Equipment

Large skillet or Dutch oven
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups and spoons
Colander

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 220 kcal🧈Total Fat: 14g💛Saturated Fat: 8g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 780mg🌾Total Carbs: 22g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 16g🥩Protein: 5g

📝Notes

For a less sweet version, reduce brown sugar to 1/3 cup. You can also use fresh or frozen green beans; blanch them first for 3 to 4 minutes, then drain before adding to the sauce.

Watch Video Of How Arkansas Green Beans Works

This Arkansas green beans recipe is truly a staple in our household, and I’m confident it will become one in yours too. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or want something special for your next family gathering, this dish has got you covered.

And don’t forget about all those health benefits – with its high fiber content from the green beans themselves plus antioxidants from those crispy onions on top (and don’t even get me started on how many vitamins are packed inside every single serving!) Trust me when I say that once you’ve tried these amazing Arkansas-style green beans once or twice…

you’ll be hooked forevermore!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Arkansas Green Beans

Q1: What is the origin of Arkansas green beans?

This classic Southern side dish has its roots in traditional American cuisine, specifically in the state of Arkansas where green beans were abundant and bacon was always in high demand.

Q2: Can I use fresh instead of canned green beans?

While fresh green beans are delicious on their own, they’re not ideal for this recipe as they can be too tender and prone to overcooking.

Q3: Why do I need both bacon and onion in this recipe?

The smoky flavor of bacon pairs perfectly with the sweetness of onions, creating a depth of flavor that complements the tangy vinegar sauce beautifully.

Q4: How long can I store cooked Arkansas green beans in the fridge?

Cooked green beans can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 5 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Q5: Can I adjust the amount of vinegar in this recipe?

Yes, feel free to adjust the amount of vinegar to your taste – some people prefer theirs more acidic while others prefer it milder.

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