green beans southern recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best green beans southern recipe

I’m so glad I can share this Southern-style green beans recipe with you all. It’s a classic dish that’s been passed down through generations, and for good reason. The combination of tender green beans, crispy bacon, and tangy vinegar is simply irresistible.

Every time I make it, my family devours the entire batch in no time. Growing up in the South, green beans were a staple in our household. My grandmother would often cook them up with some bacon and a bit of sugar to balance out the flavors.

She’d serve them alongside fried chicken or roasted meats, and it was always a crowd-pleaser. As I got older, I began to experiment with different seasonings and techniques to give the dish my own twist. One day, while visiting my aunt in North Carolina, I was introduced to her version of green beans.

She’d add a splash of apple cider vinegar to give them a tangy kick. I was hooked! From that day on, I made sure to add a bit of vinegar to my green bean recipes whenever I could.

This Southern-style green beans recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking to add some flavor and variety to their vegetable dishes. It’s easy to make and can be served alongside just about anything – from grilled meats to roasted vegetables. The best part?

This recipe is incredibly versatile. You can adjust the amount of vinegar and sugar to suit your taste preferences, and even add some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor.

Southern Green Beans

Southern Green Beans

4.9 from 1541 votes

These Southern green beans are slowly simmered with smoked ham hock or bacon until tender and flavorful. The long cooking time infuses the beans with a rich, savory taste that is a classic side dish in Southern cuisine.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time1 hr 30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time1 hr 40 mins
Servings: 6Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 180 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Green Beans

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
4 slices bacon or 1 smoked ham hock
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth or water
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon sugar (optional)

👨‍🍳Directions

1In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the bacon or ham hock until browned and rendered, about 5 minutes.
2If using bacon, remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
3Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook over medium heat until softened, about 3 minutes.
4Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
5Add the trimmed green beans to the pot and pour in the chicken broth or water.
6Stir in the salt, black pepper, and sugar if using.
7If you removed the bacon, crumble it and add it back now.
8Bring the liquid to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low.
9Cover the pot and let the green beans simmer for 1 to 1.
5 hours, until the beans are very tender and the liquid has reduced slightly.
Stir occasionally.
10Taste the beans and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
11Serve hot, using a slotted spoon to transfer the beans to a serving dish.
12The beans should be dark green and very soft.

🔧Equipment

Large pot or Dutch oven
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring cups and spoons
Stirring spoon

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 180 kcal🧈Total Fat: 8g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 15mg🧂Sodium: 800mg🌾Total Carbs: 20g🥦Dietary Fiber: 5g🍬Sugars: 8g🥩Protein: 8g

📝Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon or ham hock and use vegetable broth. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil for flavor. The longer you simmer the beans, the more tender and flavorful they become.

Watch Video Of How Southern Green Beans Works

This Southern-style green beans recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a family gathering or just need a quick side dish for dinner. The key is to use high-quality ingredients and take your time when cooking the beans until they’re tender but still crisp.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how easily it scales up or down depending on your needs. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just want leftovers for later in the week, this recipe adapts beautifully.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Southern Green Beans

Q: What type of green beans are best for this recipe?

A: You can use either fresh or frozen green beans for this recipe. If using fresh beans, be sure to trim the ends and cut them into bite-sized pieces before cooking. If using frozen beans, simply thaw them according to package instructions.

Q: Can I substitute the bacon with something else?

A: Yes, you can substitute the bacon with pancetta or prosciutto if you prefer a milder flavor. Alternatively, you can omit the bacon altogether if you’re watching your sodium intake.

Q: How do I store leftover green beans?

A: To store leftover green beans, let them cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 3 days in the fridge or can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can prepare the green bean mixture ahead of time by cooking the beans and setting them aside until you’re ready to assemble the dish.

Q: What’s the best way to reheat leftover green beans?

A: To reheat leftover green beans, simply place them in a saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

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