Grandmaw'S Green Beans
Grandmaw's Green Beans offer a sweet, tangy, and savory flavor combination, perfect as a comforting side dish for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Saute chopped onion and bacon together until bacon is crisp and onion is translucent.
- Pour off the juice from the cans of green beans over the onion and bacon mixture.
- Add 2 tablespoons of vinegar and 1 cup of sugar; cook on high heat for 15 minutes.
- Add the green beans to the mixture and simmer for about one hour.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider using fresh green beans instead of canned for a fresher taste. If you prefer a smoky flavor, try adding a bit of smoked paprika or using a different type of bacon. For a less sweet version, reduce the sugar to 3/4 cup or substitute it with honey. This dish is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a versatile side for any meal.
Serving Suggestions
These green beans are a delightful side dish that pairs beautifully with hearty meals like Bonnie Rayburn's Meat Loaf or Country Pork and Sauerkraut. Serve them alongside roasted chicken or grilled meats for a comforting family dinner. For a complete meal, consider adding a starch, such as mashed potatoes or cornbread, to round out the experience.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat to maintain their texture, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. You can also microwave them in a covered dish, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Grandmaw'S Green Beans contains roughly 132 calories, with 6g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein.
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, you can definitely use fresh green beans! Blanch them in boiling water for 3-5 minutes before adding to the recipe to ensure they are tender and flavorful. This will give you a fresher taste and a nice texture.
What can I substitute for bacon in this recipe?
If you're looking for a vegetarian option, smoked tempeh or liquid smoke can provide a similar flavor profile without using meat. You could also use turkey bacon for a lighter alternative, though the cooking time may vary slightly.
How can I make this dish less sweet?
To reduce the sweetness, consider cutting down the sugar to 3/4 cup or using a sugar substitute like agave syrup. You can also balance the sweetness with a touch more vinegar or adding a pinch of salt to enhance the overall flavor.
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).