This Southern-style green bean recipe is a comfort food staple that transforms simple vegetables into a rich, soulful dish. Unlike quick-sautéed sides, these beans are slow-cooked with smoky bacon, onions, and bell peppers until they are incredibly tender and infused with deep flavor. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a stew-like consistency that pairs perfectly with cornbread or biscuits. ItâÂÂs an ideal side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals where hearty, home-cooked flavors are appreciated. The optional addition of small potatoes makes it even more filling, turning it into a satisfying meal on its own.
Green Beans Southern Style
Description
This Southern-style green bean recipe is a comfort food staple that transforms simple vegetables into a rich, soulful dish. Unlike quick-saut&# 195;©ed sides, these beans are slow-cooked with smoky bacon, onions, and bell peppers until they are incredibly tender and infused with deep flavor. The long cooking time allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a stew-like consistency that pairs perfectly with cornbread or biscuits. ItâÂÂs an ideal side dish for family dinners, potlucks, or holiday meals where hearty, home-cooked flavors are appreciated. The optional addition of small potatoes makes it even more filling, turning it into a satisfying meal on its own.Ingredients
Directions
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Trim the ends off the green beans. If the beans are large or tough, cut them in half lengthwise and then into bite-sized pieces. If they are small and tender, leave them whole.
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Place the green beans, chopped onion, chopped green bell pepper, and bacon squares into a large stewing pot or Dutch oven.
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Add enough water to cover the ingredients completely.
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Cover the pot and place it over low heat. Simmer gently for 2 to 3 hours, or until the beans are very tender and dull green in color.
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About 30 minutes before serving, add the whole new potatoes if using. Continue to cook until the potatoes are tender.
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Season with salt and black pepper to taste, keeping in mind the bacon is already salty.
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Serve hot, spooning a generous amount of the cooking liquid over the beans and potatoes.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 8
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 70.4kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.5g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 13.6mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 15.9g6%
- Dietary Fiber 6.1g25%
- Sugars 7.5g
- Protein 4.1g9%
* 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
These beans are meant to be very tender, almost stew-like, rather than crisp. Do not worry about overcooking them; the long simmering time is essential for developing the Southern flavor profile.
For a vegan variation, omit the bacon and use a smoked tofu or liquid smoke to mimic the smoky flavor.
This dish can be served as a side dish with fried chicken or pork chops, or as a main meal with cornbread or biscuits on the side.
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a splash of water if needed.
