Shirley'S Green Beans
A savory green bean dish with crispy bacon, tomatoes, and flavorful seasonings, perfect for family dinners or holiday sides with a rich, hearty taste.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp; remove bacon, reserving 2 tablespoons of drippings.
- Crumble bacon and set aside.
- In the drippings, cook chopped onion and green pepper until tender.
- Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and cook, stirring, for 1-2 minutes.
- Add chopped tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, pepper, and dry mustard; cook for 5 minutes.
- Stir in drained green beans and cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.
- Add crumbled bacon before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using smoked bacon or adding a pinch of smoked paprika. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon can be substituted. For a vegetarian twist, replace bacon with sautéed mushrooms or tempeh to maintain depth. You can also add other vegetables like sliced carrots or celery for more texture.
Serving Suggestions
Shirley’s Green Beans make a delightful side dish for grilled meats or roasted chicken. They pair beautifully with cornbread salad(Really Good) for a comforting meal. Consider serving them alongside Texas Beans, Ala Fislar for a hearty spread at your next gathering or potluck.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the green beans in a skillet over medium heat until heated through, adding a splash of water if they seem dry. Avoid microwaving to preserve the texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Shirley'S Green Beans contains roughly 164 calories, with 7g protein, 17g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (145% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 469mg per serving (20% 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, you can use fresh green beans! Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding them to the skillet. This will ensure they are tender but still crisp. Adjust the cooking time to ensure they don’t overcook when mixed with the other ingredients.
What can I use instead of Worcestershire sauce?
If you don't have Worcestershire sauce, you can substitute it with soy sauce mixed with a dash of vinegar or lemon juice. This will mimic the tangy and savory flavor profile. Alternatively, a homemade blend of vinegar, soy sauce, and a bit of sugar can also work well.
Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the green beans and bacon. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat on the stove and add the bacon just before serving for the best texture.
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).