This dish transforms simple green beans into a savory Southern classic. Fresh green beans are blanched to retain their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture, then tossed in rendered bacon fat for deep, smoky flavor. The dish is finished with crispy, crumbled bacon pieces that provide a satisfying crunch. It is a perfect side dish for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a hearty weeknight meal. The combination of earthy vegetables and salty pork creates a comforting, home-style experience that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or fried chicken. Simple ingredients result in a robust, flavorful vegetable dish that everyone will love.
Green Beans New Southern Style
Description
This dish transforms simple green beans into a savory Southern classic. Fresh green beans are blanched to retain their vibrant color and crisp-tender texture, then tossed in rendered bacon fat for deep, smoky flavor. The dish is finished with crispy, crumbled bacon pieces that provide a satisfying crunch. It is a perfect side dish for holiday dinners, potlucks, or a hearty weeknight meal. The combination of earthy vegetables and salty pork creates a comforting, home-style experience that pairs beautifully with roasted meats or fried chicken. Simple ingredients result in a robust, flavorful vegetable dish that everyone will love.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash the green beans thoroughly and snip off the stem ends.
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Bring a large pot of water to a boil and add the salt.
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Drop the prepared green beans into the boiling water.
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Reduce heat slightly and cook until the beans are barely tender-crisp, about 3-5 minutes.
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Drain the beans in a colander and immediately rinse under cold running water to stop the cooking process.
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Drain the beans well and set aside.
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In a deep heavy pot or skillet, cook the bacon slices over low heat until crisp.
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Remove the bacon slices from the pot and place them on paper towels to drain.
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Crumble the cooled bacon into bite-sized pieces.
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Pour off all but 2 tablespoons of the rendered bacon fat from the pot.
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Heat the remaining bacon fat over medium heat.
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Add the blanched green beans to the hot fat and fork-stir until heated through.
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Stir in the crumbled bacon and serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 12
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 105.6kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.7g2%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 20.4mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 23.8g8%
- Dietary Fiber 9.2g37%
- Sugars 11.2g
- Protein 6.1g13%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For best results, choose fresh, bright green beans that snap easily when bent.
Do not skip the cold water rinse; it keeps the beans vibrant green and prevents them from becoming mushy.
If you prefer a spicier kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes when heating the beans in the bacon fat.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet to maintain texture.
For a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon fat with olive oil or butter and omit the bacon, or use a vegetarian bacon alternative.
