Old Time Green Bean Canning
A classic green bean canning recipe featuring tangy vinegar and sweet sugar, perfect for preserving summer beans and enjoying them year-round with family and friends.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Break the green beans and pour boiling water over them.
- Let set for 10 minutes and then drain.
- Cover with water again and add 1 cup vinegar and 1 cup sugar.
- Cook for 30 minutes.
- Put the cooked green beans into jars with 1 teaspoon of salt in the bottom of each quart jar.
Tips & Substitutions
For best results, use fresh, crisp green beans and ensure they are thoroughly cleaned. If you prefer a sweeter taste, you can increase the sugar to 1.5 cups. For a spicier kick, consider adding red pepper flakes or garlic cloves to the jars. Always use canning jars and lids that are specifically designed for preserving to ensure safety.
Serving Suggestions
These green beans are perfect as a side dish at barbecues or family gatherings. They pair wonderfully with hearty main dishes, such as Smothered Wing Dings or grilled meats. You can also serve them alongside a light salad, like Carleta'S Cranberry Salad, for a balanced meal.
Storage & Reheating
Once canned, store the jars in a cool, dark place. Properly sealed jars can last for up to a year. After opening, refrigerate any leftovers in a sealed container for up to a week. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave, adding a splash of water if necessary to prevent drying out.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Old Time Green Bean Canning contains roughly 506 calories, with 5g protein, 97g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (39% of the Daily Value) and iron (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 658mg per serving (29% 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 frozen green beans instead of fresh?
While fresh green beans are recommended for the best texture and flavor, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to thaw and drain them well before canning to avoid excess moisture, which can affect the final product.
How can I tell if my jars have sealed properly?
After cooling, check the lids by pressing down in the center. If it pops back, the jar has not sealed properly, and you should refrigerate it and use it within a week. Sealed jars will have a concave lid and will not move when pressed.
What if I want to reduce the sugar in the recipe?
You can reduce the sugar to half a cup, but be aware that this will alter the flavor and preservation qualities. Consider using alternatives like honey or agave syrup, but remember to account for their sweetness and adjust the quantity accordingly.
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).