There’s nothing quite like indulging in a serving of Southern-Style Green Beans, a dish that brings warmth and authenticity to any dinner table. Known for their rich, smoky flavors and tender texture, these green beans are a staple in Southern cuisine, offering a delightful twist to the classic vegetable side dish.
Growing up, Sunday dinners at my grandmother’s house were always a feast, but the green beans were the first to disappear from everyone’s plate. The recipe has since been passed down through generations, and every time I make it, I’m reminded of those joyful family gatherings and the comforting aroma that filled the room. It’s a simple yet nostalgic dish that never fails to bring back fond memories.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Southern dish stands out for its perfect combination of textures and flavors. The use of smoked meats adds a rich, savory taste that complements the freshness of the green beans. Additionally, the slow cooking process ensures each bean absorbs the delightful flavors, making it irresistibly tender. It’s a perfect dish for any occasion, whether you’re hosting a holiday dinner or a casual weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a one-pot wonder, minimizing cleanup and maximizing convenience.
Ingredients Notes
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Start with fresh green beans for the best flavor and texture. If fresh beans aren’t available, frozen ones will work in a pinch. You’ll also need smoked ham hocks or bacon, which are essential for that authentic Southern taste. For added depth, consider using chicken broth instead of water. Don’t forget basic seasonings like garlic, onion, and black pepper.
Recipe Steps
Step 1
Begin by washing and trimming the ends of the green beans. Set them aside while you prepare the rest of your ingredients.
Step 2
In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon or ham hocks until crispy. This will release flavors into the pot and serve as the base for your dish.
Step 3
Add chopped onions and garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onions become translucent and aromatic. This adds another layer of flavor to the dish.
Step 4
Incorporate the prepared green beans into the pot, followed by the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer. Cover and cook until the beans are tender, which usually takes about 45 minutes.
Step 5
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the beans have absorbed the flavors and are cooked to perfection, your dish is ready to be served.
Storage Options
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply add some broth and warm gently on the stovetop. For longer storage, cool the beans and transfer them to a freezer-safe container. They can be frozen for up to three months. When ready to use, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as usual.
Variations & Substitutions
For a vegetarian version, skip the smoked meats and add smoked paprika for a similar depth of flavor. You could also experiment with turkey bacon for a lighter alternative. To give it an extra kick, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce. Feel free to toss in some diced tomatoes for added freshness and color.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic Southern mains like fried chicken, roasted pork, or even a simple grilled fish. It’s also a great addition to a holiday spread, bringing a pop of color and flavor to your table.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use canned green beans for this recipe? While fresh or frozen green beans are preferred for texture and flavor, canned green beans can be used in a pinch. If you’re using canned, reduce the cooking time to avoid overcooking, as these are already soft.
What can I substitute for ham hocks? If ham hocks are unavailable, try using smoked sausage or even bacon for that smoky flavor. A drop of liquid smoke can also mimic the smokiness if you’re using a plant-based protein source.
Do I have to use chicken broth? While chicken broth enhances the flavor significantly, you can substitute it with vegetable broth, beef broth, or even plain water with a bouillon cube dissolved in it for added savory notes.
Southern-Style Green Beans
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1.5 pounds fresh green beans trimmed
- 4 slices bacon chopped
- 1 medium onion chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth or more as needed
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove bacon and set aside.
- Add chopped onion to the pot with the bacon drippings and sauté until translucent.
- Add green beans, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Bring to a simmer.
- Cover and cook for about 45 minutes, adding more broth if necessary, until beans are tender.
- Stir in the cooked bacon before serving.
