Strang Beans*
A hearty Southern-style green bean dish with tender beans, savory hog meat, and rich lard, perfect for family gatherings and comfort food cravings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Pick 6 or 7 pounds of green beans from the garden in the early morning.
- Break the green beans into small pieces about an inch long.
- Wash the green beans thoroughly.
- Cut off any bug bites from the beans.
- Place the green beans in a large pot and add enough water to cover them.
- Add a piece of hog meat to the pot.
- Stir in a generous spoonful of lard.
- Add salt to taste.
- Cook until the beans are tender and the green color has faded.
Tips & Substitutions
When preparing green beans, choose fresh, bright ones for the best flavor. If you don't have hog meat, smoked sausage can be a suitable substitute for that rich taste. For a healthier option, consider using olive oil instead of lard. To enhance the flavor, you can add minced garlic or onion. Be sure to taste and adjust the salt as necessary throughout the cooking process.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these delicious green beans alongside roasted meats or grilled fish for a hearty meal. They pair beautifully with Spicy Green Beans for an extra kick. Consider adding a fresh salad and some cornbread for a complete meal. These beans can also be a great side dish for a barbecue or family gathering.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place the beans in a saucepan over medium heat with a splash of water to prevent drying out. Cover and warm until heated through. You can also reheat them in the microwave in short intervals.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Strang Beans* contains roughly 1353 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 150g fat. It is a good source of vitamin D (19% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 485mg per serving (21% 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?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans, but be aware that the cooking time may vary. Frozen beans are often blanched before freezing, so they may cook faster. Adjust your cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking them.
What can I serve with these green beans?
These green beans go well with a variety of dishes. Consider serving them with grilled chicken or pork chops for a classic pairing. They also complement hearty stews or casseroles. For a lighter option, serve them alongside a fresh salad.
How do I know when the green beans are done cooking?
The green beans are done when they are tender but still have a slight bite to them. The vibrant green color will fade slightly, indicating they are cooked. Taste a piece to ensure they have reached your desired level of tenderness.
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).