Edna'S Rhinelander Green Beans
Edna's Rhinelander Green Beans combine crispy bacon, tangy vinegar, and tender cabbage for a flavorful side dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut bacon into very small pieces and brown in a skillet.
- Add chopped onion to the bacon and cook until browned.
- Allow the bacon and onion mixture to cool.
- Mix vinegar, sugar, salt, pepper, and shredded cabbage in a bowl.
- Add the cooled bacon and onion mixture to the cabbage mixture.
- Drain the green beans and add them to the cabbage and bacon mixture.
- Simmer the mixture for several hours.
- Drain off excess liquid before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon. You can substitute the sugar with honey or maple syrup for a different sweetener. For a vegetarian option, replace the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh. If you prefer a bit of heat, add red pepper flakes to the mixture. Make sure to taste and adjust the seasonings before serving.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with Zesty Italian Pork Chops or can be served alongside a hearty meatloaf. It also complements grilled meats and makes a great side for summer barbecues. Consider serving it with cornbread or over rice for a complete meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for added color and flavor.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, place in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also reheat in the microwave, using a covered dish to retain moisture. Adding a splash of vinegar can refresh the flavors during reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Edna'S Rhinelander Green Beans contains roughly 194 calories, with 7g protein, 29g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (161% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (30% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (24% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1447mg per serving (63% 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?
Yes, fresh green beans can be used instead of canned. Simply blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes until tender, then add them to the mixture as instructed. Fresh beans will add a nice crunch and vibrant color to the dish.
How long can I simmer the dish?
You can simmer the dish for as little as 1 hour or up to 3 hours, depending on how soft you want the cabbage and green beans. Just keep an eye on the liquid level and adjust as necessary to prevent burning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! This dish can be made a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld together. Just cool it completely, then store in the refrigerator. Reheat gently before serving, and it will taste even better the next day.
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).