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Southern Green Beans with Bacon

Southern green beans with bacon are simmered low and slow in chicken broth until very tender, then finished with crisp bacon. This classic stovetop side has savory broth and plenty of smoky flavor.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 55 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 5 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 160
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bacon slices, cut crosswise into 1/2-inch pieces
  • 1 yellow onion small, finely chopped
  • 2 lb fresh green beans trimmed
  • 2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 0.5 tsp kosher salt
  • 0.25 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • 1 5-quart Dutch oven

Method
 

  1. Cook the bacon in a 5-quart Dutch oven over medium heat for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until crisp.
  2. Transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate and leave 2 tablespoons of drippings in the pot.
  3. Add the onion and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  4. Add the green beans, chicken broth, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  6. Cover, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for 35 to 45 minutes, until the beans are very tender.
  7. Stir in the cooked bacon and simmer uncovered for 2 minutes before serving.

Notes

For the most tender beans, keep the simmer gentle and check them near the start of the time range. Refrigerate leftovers for 3 to 4 days; freezing is not recommended because the beans can become mushy. For a pork-free variation, use turkey bacon.