Green Bean Specialty

Prep: 10 min Cook: 15 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

This Green Bean Specialty is a delightful side dish that combines the savory richness of bacon with a sweet and tangy sauce. Perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners, it adds a burst of flavor to any meal while being easy to prepare.

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Ingredients

  • 4 pieces bacon
  • 4 Tbsp. bacon grease
  • 4 Tbsp. brown sugar
  • 4 Tbsp. vinegar
  • 2 Tbsp. mustard

Instructions

  1. Heat and drain 2 cans of green beans.
  2. Mix the bacon grease, brown sugar, vinegar, and mustard in a saucepan and heat until combined.
  3. Pour the liquid mixture over the drained green beans.
  4. Crumble the cooked bacon on top.
  5. Serve hot.

Tips & Substitutions

For an alternative to bacon, consider using smoked turkey or tempeh for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a healthier twist, reduce the brown sugar or substitute it with honey or maple syrup. To amp up the flavor, add minced garlic or onion to the mixture. Ensure your green beans are well-drained to avoid a watery dish. This recipe is reminiscent of classic American recipes, making it a perfect side dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Green Bean Specialty hot as a side dish with grilled meats or alongside hearty casseroles like New Year'S Casserole. It pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a complete meal, consider serving it with pork recipes for a delightful flavor combination.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the green beans in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, stirring occasionally. Avoid reheating multiple times to maintain texture and flavor.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Green Bean Specialty contains roughly 284 calories, with 5g protein, 18g carbohydrates, and 22g fat.

284 kcal 14% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.7g 9% DV
Total Fat 21.6g 28% DV
Carbs 17.7g 6% DV
Fiber 0.2g 1% DV
Sugar 17g 34% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 262.1mg 11% DV
Potassium 106.7mg 2% DV
Cholesterol 29.6mg 10% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 39.5mcg 4% DV
Vitamin C 1.9mg 2% DV
Vitamin D 0.4mcg 2% DV
Calcium 27.5mg 2% DV
Iron 0.6mg 3% DV
Diet fit Low-carb Under 400 cal

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 use fresh green beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for about 3-5 minutes until tender before mixing them with the sauce. This will give your dish a fresher taste and a nice crunch.

What can I do if I don't have bacon grease?

If you don't have bacon grease, you can substitute it with olive oil or butter. While it won't provide the same smoky flavor, it will still allow the other ingredients to blend nicely. You could also try using a flavored oil for added depth.

How can I make this dish spicier?

To add some heat to your Green Bean Specialty, consider mixing in a pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. Adjust the amount according to your heat preference, and enjoy the extra kick!

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).

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