Aunt Ludie'S Canned Green Beans
A hearty Southern-style green beans dish featuring tender ham, sweetened with sugar and vinegar, perfect for family dinners and comfort food lovers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook cubed ham for 1 hour.
- Add cooked ham to green beans and cook together for 2 hours, reducing to get most of the juice out.
- Add sugar and vinegar to the mixture.
- Add salt to taste.
- Add a few chunks of ham per quart and then can.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked ham instead of regular cubed ham. If you want a vegetarian version, substitute the ham with sautéed mushrooms or a dash of liquid smoke. To enhance the sweetness, you can replace sugar with honey or maple syrup. Be sure to taste as you go and adjust the salt accordingly, especially if your ham is already salty.
Serving Suggestions
These canned green beans are a fantastic side dish for any meal, especially paired with Let'S Have A Party Ham Roll-Ups or German Beef Sauerkraut. Serve them alongside cornbread or mashed potatoes for a comforting dinner. They also make a great addition to a mixed bean salad or as a topping for a baked potato.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover canned green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep them moist. If you plan to freeze them, it's best to do so before canning to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Aunt Ludie'S Canned Green Beans contains roughly 7 calories, with 0g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 0g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 498mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans can be used in this recipe. Just make sure to blanch them first to preserve their color and texture. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they are tender but not mushy.
How long can I store the canned green beans?
If properly canned and sealed, these green beans can last for up to a year in a cool, dark place. Always check for any signs of spoilage before using, such as bulging lids or off smells.
What can I serve with canned green beans?
Canned green beans pair wonderfully with a variety of dishes. They go well with grilled meats, hearty stews, or even as part of a larger spread with dishes like Welsh Rarebit With Beans. Try them as a side for any comfort food meal.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).