I’ve been making this granny green beans recipe for years, and it’s still a family favorite. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The recipe originated from my grandmother, who learned it from her mother.
It’s a classic Southern-style green bean recipe that’s been passed down through generations. The key to making this recipe is to use fresh green beans, which are usually available in the summer months. I like to use a combination of green and yellow beans for added color and flavor.
To prepare the beans, I blanch them in boiling water for 5 minutes, then shock them in an ice bath to stop the cooking process. This helps preserve their crunch and color. After that, I sauté them with some onion, garlic, and bacon until they’re tender and lightly browned.
The result is a delicious and satisfying side dish that’s sure to please both kids and adults alike. My family loves this recipe because it’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser. We often serve it at family gatherings and holiday meals.
One of the best things about this recipe is its health benefits – green beans are low in calories and rich in vitamins and minerals. They’re also high in fiber, which can help with digestion and satiety. In addition to being good for you, this recipe is also budget-friendly and uses affordable ingredients.
I’ve made it for years, and I still get requests for the recipe from friends and family members. It’s a true classic that never goes out of style.
Granny’s Green Beans
4.7 from 993 votes
A classic Southern side dish featuring fresh green beans simmered low and slow with bacon and onion until tender and flavorful. The beans are cooked in a savory broth that infuses them with a rich, smoky taste.
1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped in half
4 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
3 cups chicken broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
👨🍳Directions
1Place a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat and add the chopped bacon.
2Cook the bacon for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is crispy and the fat is rendered.
3Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the drippings in the pot.
4Add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring often, until the onion is soft and translucent.
5Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.
6Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil over high heat.
7Add the trimmed green beans, salt, and black pepper, then reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
8Simmer the beans for 30 to 35 minutes, stirring once halfway through, until they are tender but still have a slight bite.
9Remove the lid and stir in the apple cider vinegar and the reserved crispy bacon.
10Increase the heat to medium-high and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, uncovered, to allow the liquid to reduce slightly.
11Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed before serving.
For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth with a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the onion and garlic. These green beans taste even better the next day after the flavors meld.
This granny green beans recipe is a staple in our household, and we love serving it at family gatherings and holiday meals. The best part about this recipe is its versatility – you can serve it as a side dish or add it to your favorite casserole or stir-fry recipes.
To store leftover green beans, simply refrigerate or freeze them until ready to reheat. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent burning.
This granny green beans recipe is perfect for any occasion – whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just need a quick weeknight meal.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Granny’s Green Beans
Q: What type of green beans should I use for this recipe?
A: You can use either regular or French-style green beans for this recipe. Regular green beans are longer and thinner, while French-style green beans are shorter and fatter. Both types work well in this recipe.
Q: Can I substitute the bacon with another ingredient?
A: Yes, you can substitute the bacon with other ingredients like olive oil or butter if you prefer a vegetarian option or if you’re watching your fat intake.
Q: How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?
A: You’ll know the green beans are done when they’re tender but still crisp. If you prefer them more tender, you can cook them for an additional 2-3 minutes.
Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time by preparing the green beans up to a day in advance and storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Q: Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
A: Yes, this recipe is suitable for vegetarians as long as you omit the bacon and use a vegetarian alternative.
Q: How do I store leftover green beans?
A: You can store leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for up to 6 months.
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