Aunt Martha’s Green Beans

🌱 Aunt Martha’s Green Beans 🍽️

Aunt Martha’s Green Beans is a classic and beloved side dish that has been a staple in American homes for generations. These delicious green beans are often cooked in a Southern or country-style manner and are known for their rich and savory flavor.

📜 History:
The history of Aunt Martha’s Green Beans is not attributed to any specific individual or event, but rather it’s a dish that has evolved over time as part of Southern and American culinary traditions. It likely originated as a way to prepare green beans in a tasty and comforting manner, often associated with family gatherings and home-cooked meals.

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

• Fresh green beans (about 1 pound)
• Bacon strips (4-6 slices)
• Onion (1 medium-sized, finely chopped)
• Garlic (2-3 cloves, minced)
• Chicken or vegetable broth (1 cup)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Butter (2-3 tablespoons)

👩‍🍳 Steps to Prepare:

1. Prepare the Green Beans: Start by washing and trimming the ends of the green beans. You can leave them whole or cut them into bite-sized pieces, depending on your preference.

2. Cook Bacon: In a large skillet or a deep pan, cook the bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and place it on a paper towel to drain excess grease. Once it’s cooled, crumble it into small pieces and set it aside.

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic: In the same pan with the bacon drippings, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic until they become translucent and fragrant. This will take about 3-5 minutes.

4. Add Green Beans: Add the green beans to the pan and stir them into the onion and garlic mixture. Cook for another 2-3 minutes.

5. Pour in Broth: Pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the pan with the green beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

6. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the green beans simmer for about 20-25 minutes or until they are tender but still have a slight crunch.

7. Finish with Butter: Once the green beans are cooked, remove the lid and stir in the butter. This adds a creamy richness to the dish.

8. Top with Crumbled Bacon: Before serving, sprinkle the crumbled bacon on top of the green beans for that extra burst of flavor and a crispy texture.

🕒 Time Needed:
The total time needed to prepare Aunt Martha’s Green Beans is approximately 45 minutes, which includes prep time and cooking time. It’s a flavorful and satisfying side dish that complements a variety of main courses and is perfect for family gatherings or holiday dinners. Enjoy! 🍽️🥓🍃

Certainly, here are the nutrition facts and some health information for Aunt Martha’s Green Beans:

Nutrition Facts (per serving, approximately 1 cup):

• Calories: Approximately 120-150 calories, depending on the amount of bacon and butter used.
• Protein: About 3-5 grams.
• Carbohydrates: Around 10-15 grams.
• Dietary Fiber: Approximately 4-6 grams.
• Fat: Roughly 7-10 grams, primarily from the bacon and butter.
• Vitamins: Aunt Martha’s Green Beans are a good source of vitamins such as vitamin C and vitamin K, which are essential for maintaining overall health.

Health Information:

1. Rich in Fiber: Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber, which is beneficial for digestive health. The fiber in green beans can help regulate bowel movements and may contribute to a feeling of fullness, potentially aiding in weight management.

2. Vitamins and Minerals: Green beans are a good source of vitamins like vitamin C, which is important for immune system support, and vitamin K, which is essential for blood clotting and bone health. They also contain minerals like potassium, which is important for maintaining healthy blood pressure.

3. Moderation is Key: While Aunt Martha’s Green Beans are a tasty and nutritious side dish, it’s important to use bacon and butter in moderation. Bacon can be high in saturated fat and sodium, so it’s best enjoyed as an occasional treat rather than a daily indulgence. Using leaner cuts of bacon or less butter can help reduce the overall calorie and fat content of the dish.

4. Vegetarian Options: If you’re looking to make this dish even healthier, you can omit the bacon or use turkey bacon for a leaner alternative. You can also reduce the amount of butter used or substitute it with olive oil for a heart-healthy option.

5. Low-Calorie Side Dish: Aunt Martha’s Green Beans, when prepared with care, can be a low-calorie side dish that adds important nutrients to your meal while contributing to a satisfying and balanced diet.

Remember, the nutritional content of Aunt Martha’s Green Beans can vary based on the specific ingredients and cooking methods used, so it’s a good idea to calculate the exact nutrition facts if you have specific dietary requirements or preferences. Enjoy this delicious side dish as part of a well-rounded meal! 🍽️🥦🥓