Sweet 'N Sour Beans

Cook: 15 min Serves: 6 Cuisine: American

Sweet 'N Sour Beans offers a savory-sweet combination with crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a tangy vinegar glaze. This hearty dish is perfect for family dinners or potlucks, bringing a delightful balance of flavors that appeals to both vegetable lovers and those craving comfort food.

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Ingredients

  • 1 quart green beans
  • 8 slices bacon, crumbled
  • 1/2 cup sugar
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 6 tablespoons bacon drippings
  • 1 large white onion

Instructions

  1. Heat the mixture to bubbling at 325°F (160°C).
  2. Serve and enjoy.

Tips & Substitutions

To enhance the flavor of Sweet 'N Sour Beans, consider adding a pinch of garlic powder or a splash of soy sauce to the mix. For a healthier twist, substitute turkey bacon for the crumbled bacon. If you prefer a vegetarian option, you can use olive oil instead of bacon drippings and omit the bacon entirely for a lighter dish.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Sweet 'N Sour Beans as a delightful side dish alongside grilled meats or hearty American recipes like Aunt Hattie'S Pork Roast. They pair wonderfully with cornbread or over rice for a more substantial meal. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture and presentation.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When ready to enjoy, reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. You can also microwave them in a covered bowl for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overheating.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour Beans contains roughly 235 calories, with 5g protein, 38g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (16% of the Daily Value), protein (10% of the Daily Value), and vitamin A (10% of the Daily Value).

235 kcal 12% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 4.8g 10% DV
Total Fat 4.6g 6% DV
Carbs 37.8g 14% DV
Fiber 2.3g 8% DV
Sugar 24.9g 50% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 186mg 8% DV
Potassium 347.3mg 7% DV
Cholesterol 10.2mg 3% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 87.5mcg 10% DV
Vitamin C 14.2mg 16% DV
Calcium 59.7mg 5% DV
Iron 1.7mg 9% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal Low-fat

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 in this recipe. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess water in your dish. Frozen beans may also cook faster, so keep an eye on them as they heat.

What can I substitute for vinegar?

If you don't have vinegar on hand, lemon juice can be an excellent substitute for a similar tangy flavor. Alternatively, apple cider vinegar or even a splash of white wine can work well, though each will slightly alter the overall taste.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To add a kick to your Sweet 'N Sour Beans, consider incorporating diced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes. For a smoky flavor, smoked paprika can also work well, complementing the bacon and creating a delightful depth of flavor.

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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