Sweet 'N Sour String Beans
Sweet 'N Sour String Beans combine tender beans with a tangy, sweet glaze, infused with bacon and onion, perfect as a flavorful side for any hearty meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the bacon in a pot you will use to cook the beans.
- Remove the bacon and set aside.
- Add diced onion to the bacon drippings in the pot.
- Drain one can of string beans and add the liquid to the pan.
- Add brown sugar and apple cider vinegar; bring to a boil.
- Add the drained beans to the pan and cook on low heat for at least 30 minutes.
- Crumble the cooked bacon and add it to the beans.
- Serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
For a smoky flavor, consider using turkey bacon instead of pork for a healthier option. If string beans are unavailable, fresh green beans can be blanched and added instead. Adjust the sweetness by varying the amount of brown sugar based on your preference. Always taste as you go to achieve the perfect balance of sweet and sour.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish hot as a side to complement grilled meats or alongside pork recipes for a delightful meal. It pairs wonderfully with rice or mashed potatoes to soak up the sauce. Consider adding a fresh salad, such as Five Star Broccoli Salad, to round out your meal and add a refreshing crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm them in a saucepan over low heat or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. Adding a splash of vinegar during reheating can help revive the flavors.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Sweet 'N Sour String Beans contains roughly 214 calories, with 5g protein, 27g carbohydrates, and 9g fat. It is a good source of protein (10% 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 string beans instead of canned?
Yes, fresh string beans work beautifully in this recipe. Blanch them in boiling water for 3-4 minutes before adding to the pot. This will help retain their crispness and vibrant color.
How can I make this dish vegetarian?
To make this dish vegetarian, omit the bacon and substitute with olive oil or a smoky flavored vegan bacon alternative. You can also add a pinch of smoked paprika to mimic the bacon's flavor.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the point of adding the beans. Store it in the fridge and then cook the beans and finish the dish when you're ready to serve. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
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).