Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans

🌱 Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans 🍽️

Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans is a classic Southern American dish, often prepared as a delicious side for hearty meals. It features fresh green beans cooked with a combination of smoky and savory ingredients, resulting in a mouthwatering flavor that’s sure to please your taste buds.

📜 History:
This dish has its roots in the Southern United States, where green beans have been a staple in traditional cuisine for generations. The South is known for its love of slow-cooked vegetables and hearty, flavorful side dishes. Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans likely gained its name from the tradition of families passing down their cherished recipes from one generation to the next, with Aunt Martha being a symbol of that tradition.

🥦 Components:
To prepare Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

• 1 pound of fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
• 4-6 slices of bacon, chopped
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon of sugar (for a touch of sweetness)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1-2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth

👩‍🍳 Preparation:

1. Start by cooking the chopped bacon in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes crispy. This will usually take about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon from the skillet and set it aside on a paper towel to drain.

2. In the same skillet, using the bacon drippings, sauté the finely chopped onion and minced garlic until they become fragrant and slightly translucent. This will take about 2-3 minutes.

3. Add the washed and trimmed green beans to the skillet and stir them to coat with the bacon drippings, onion, and garlic. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

4. Sprinkle the green beans with a teaspoon of sugar and season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

5. Pour in 1-2 cups of chicken or vegetable broth, enough to partially cover the green beans. Bring it to a simmer, reduce the heat, and cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the green beans to cook for 20-30 minutes or until they reach your desired level of tenderness.

6. Just before serving, sprinkle the crispy bacon bits over the top for added flavor and a crunchy texture.

⏱️ Preparation Time:
The total time to prepare Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans can vary depending on how tender you like your beans. On average, it takes about 45 minutes to 1 hour from start to finish.

This heartwarming dish is perfect for serving alongside fried chicken, barbecue, or any Southern-inspired meal. It’s a flavorful and comforting side that’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy! 🍽️🥓🌱🍲

Certainly! Here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans:

🥦 Nutrition Facts (Approximate Values):

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 150
• Total Fat: 6g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
• Cholesterol: 10mg
• Sodium: 300mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 20g
  • Dietary Fiber: 4g
  • Sugars: 5g
• Protein: 5g
• Vitamin D: 0%
• Calcium: 4%
• Iron: 6%
• Potassium: 10%

Please note that these values are approximate and can vary depending on factors like the amount of bacon used and the specific ingredients you choose.

🌱 Health Information:
Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans can be a nutritious and wholesome side dish when prepared with moderation and a focus on balanced eating. Here are some health aspects to consider:

1. Fiber: Green beans are a good source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health and can help you feel full and satisfied.

2. Vitamins and Minerals: Green beans are rich in vitamins like vitamin C and vitamin K, as well as minerals such as potassium. These are important for overall health and well-being.

3. Protein: While green beans contain some protein, the bacon in this recipe contributes additional protein. However, it’s important to be mindful of the saturated fat content in bacon.

4. Sodium: The sodium content in this dish can be relatively high, primarily due to the use of bacon and broth. If you’re watching your sodium intake, consider using low-sodium broth and minimizing added salt.

5. Moderation: Like many comfort foods, Aunt Martha’s Country Green Beans should be enjoyed in moderation. While it’s a flavorful and delicious side dish, it’s best balanced with a variety of other nutrient-rich foods.

Remember that individual nutritional needs vary, so it’s always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional or registered dietitian if you have specific dietary concerns or goals. Additionally, you can make adjustments to the recipe, such as using turkey bacon or reducing the amount of bacon to make it a healthier option. 🍽️🌿