Barbecued String Beans
Barbecued string beans feature smoky bacon, sweet and tangy sauce, perfect as a flavorful side dish for barbecues or family dinners.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Diced and brown the bacon slices in a skillet.
- Add diced onion to the bacon and cook until softened.
- Combine the browned bacon, onion, salt, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, and ketchup in a saucepan.
- Simmer the mixture for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Let the sauce stand for one hour to develop flavor.
- Drain the French cut green beans and add them to the sauce.
- Heat the beans with the sauce until thoroughly warmed.
- Serve and enjoy.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, try using turkey bacon or adding smoked paprika. If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or liquid smoke and adjust the salt accordingly. You can also experiment with different types of beans, such as haricots verts, for a unique twist. Make sure to let the sauce develop its flavors for at least an hour before adding the beans.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these barbecued string beans as a hearty side dish alongside grilled meats or at a summer barbecue. They pair beautifully with Sugar Basted Baked Ham With A Pecan Gravy Glace or can complement a fresh Orange-Romaine Salad. For an added crunch, sprinkle some toasted nuts on top before serving.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the mixture in a saucepan over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce thickens too much. Avoid reheating in the microwave, as it can make the beans mushy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Barbecued String Beans contains roughly 208 calories, with 5g protein, 33g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2234mg per serving (97% 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 make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. Just reheat the sauce and then add the green beans when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making the dish even tastier.
What can I substitute for Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can use soy sauce mixed with a little vinegar and sugar as a substitute. This combination will provide the umami flavor and slight sweetness that Worcestershire sauce contributes to the dish.
Can I use fresh green beans instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh green beans will enhance the dish's flavor and texture. Just blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes before adding them to the sauce to ensure they cook evenly and retain their vibrant color.
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).