Are you ready to elevate your vegetable game and impress your family with a dish that will have them begging for seconds? Look no further than these delectable Southern-style green beans. With their irresistible tenderness, buttery flavor, and smoky undertones, these green beans are sure to become a staple in your dinner rotation!
If you hail from the South, these green beans will transport you back to your grandma’s kitchen. They evoke a sense of nostalgia and embody the essence of Southern comfort food. It’s time to create new memories with this classic recipe!
What Makes These Southern-Style Green Beans So Special?
Imagine a dish that not only pleases your taste buds but also earns the approval of your kids. These green beans are a dinner winner that even the pickiest eaters will love!
- Kids adore these green beans!
- The inclusion of bacon adds a savory depth of flavor.
- They are incredibly easy to prepare.
- You get all the slow-cooked goodness without the need for a slow cooker.
Tips for Perfect Southern-Style Green Beans
To ensure your green beans turn out flawlessly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Dry the Beans: After rinsing the beans, make sure to thoroughly dry them. Excess water can lead to dangerous reactions when added to hot bacon grease. So grab a clean kitchen towel and dry those beans!
- Add Onion: For an extra layer of flavor, try sautéing half a cup of yellow onion in the bacon drippings before adding the green beans. It adds a hint of sweetness that complements the smoky bacon perfectly.
- Fresh is Best: Opt for fresh green beans instead of frozen or canned ones. The structural integrity of fresh beans allows them to withstand the long cooking time without falling apart. Frozen or canned beans would simply disintegrate, compromising the dish’s texture.
Tools You’ll Need
Luckily, you don’t need any specialized tools to prepare these country-style green beans. Here’s what you’ll need:
- A colander for draining the beans.
- A clean kitchen towel.
- A large pan.
- A spoon.
Storing, Freezing, and Make-Ahead Tips
Once you’ve experienced the incredible flavors of these Southern-style green beans, you’ll want to enjoy them again and again. Here’s how you can make that happen:
- Refrigeration: These green beans will stay fresh in the fridge for up to four days.
- Freezing: These green beans make an excellent freezer meal. Portion them out and store them in the freezer for up to two months. Their long shelf life is due to the absence of dairy or other highly perishable ingredients. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw the desired amount in the microwave.
- Make-Ahead: Since these beans require simmering for at least an hour, they are perfect for make-ahead preparations. Start cooking the beans an hour before you need them, and they’ll be ready and waiting for you. Alternatively, you can make them ahead of time and store them overnight. Just reheat and serve!
Serving Suggestions
These Southern-style green beans with bacon grease pair beautifully with a variety of dishes. Here are a few recommendations to complete your meal:
- Smothered chicken
- Crockpot pork chops smothered in mushroom onion gravy
- Chicken lazone
- Blackened chicken
- Jambalaya
- Baked mac and cheese
And let’s not forget about biscuits! My grandma always had biscuits on the table for Sunday dinner. Try my super quick and easy Bisquick biscuits!
More Delicious Vegetable Recipes
If you’re craving even more tasty vegetable recipes, here are a few options to explore:
- Broccoli Salad
- Sautéed Asparagus
- Roasted Broccoli
- Simple Roasted Peppers
- Roasted Garlic Asparagus With Feta
- Cheesy Broccoli Cauliflower Casserole
- Carrot Salad
- Fajita Veggies
- Fried Cabbage And Bacon
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Remember, it’s time to bring a taste of the South to your table with these tempting Southern-style green beans. So grab your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking!
