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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. Crisp bacon and softened onion add savory flavor to this simple stovetop side dish.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 10 minutes
Servings: 6 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: Southern
Calories: 130
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 6 bacon slices, chopped
  • 1 yellow onion small, finely chopped
  • 1.5 lb fresh green beans trimmed
  • 1 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 plate with a slotted spoon, leaving the drippings in the pot.
  3. Add the onion to the drippings and cook over medium heat for 4 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
  4. Add the green beans, chicken broth, salt, pepper, and cooked bacon.
  5. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce the heat to low.
  6. Simmer for 40 to 50 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very tender.

Notes

For the most tender beans, simmer until very tender as directed. Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days; freezing is not recommended because the beans may soften further. For a lower-sodium option, use unsalted chicken broth.