Sweet And Sour String Beans
Sweet and sour string beans combine crispy bacon, tender beans, and a tangy sauce, making a flavorful side perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cook the string beans until tender, then drain and save 1/4 cup of the bean juice.
- Combine the bean juice with sugar, pepper, flour, dry mustard, and salt in a saucepan, bring to a boil.
- Add the cooked beans and bacon to the sauce, and simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, you can substitute the bacon with smoked tempeh or mushrooms to achieve a similar umami flavor. If you prefer a bit more tang, consider adding a splash of vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce. Make sure to cook the string beans until they're just tender to maintain their vibrant color and crunch, which enhances the dish's appeal.
Serving Suggestions
Sweet and sour string beans make a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or fish. They pair beautifully with Polly'S Hoagies for a complete meal. For a heartier option, serve them over rice or quinoa, and consider adding a side of Maryland Collard Greens for a delicious and nutritious spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm them on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to prevent drying out. Alternatively, you can microwave them in short intervals, stirring in between, until heated through for a quick meal.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet And Sour String Beans contains roughly 147 calories, with 7g protein, 15g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 703mg per serving (31% 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 string beans for this recipe?
Yes, frozen string beans can be used. Just make sure to thaw and drain them properly before cooking to avoid excess moisture in the dish. They may cook a bit faster than fresh ones, so keep an eye on them to prevent overcooking.
What can I use instead of dry mustard?
If you don't have dry mustard, you can substitute it with prepared mustard, using about three times the amount. Keep in mind that the flavor will be slightly different, but it will still add the necessary tangy element to the dish. Alternatively, a bit of turmeric can be used for color and mild flavor.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To add some heat to the sweet and sour string beans, consider including a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce when mixing the sauce ingredients. Adjust according to your heat preference, and taste as you go to ensure it complements the sweetness without overwhelming it.
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).