Get ready to dive into a mouthwatering Southern classic that will transport you straight to a cozy kitchen in the heart of the Deep South! These stewed green beans aren't just a side dish - they're a culinary experience that blends rich, slow-cooked flavors with a rustic charm that will have your family and friends begging for seconds. Imagine tender green beans swimming in a luscious tomato sauce, infused with caramelized onions and a hint of garlic - this recipe is about to become your new comfort food obsession.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 can diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash and trim the fresh green beans, removing any tough ends and cutting them into roughly 2-inch pieces.
- Peel and finely chop the onion. Mince the garlic cloves, ensuring they are chopped into small, uniform pieces.
- Heat olive oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat until the oil shimmers and becomes fragrant.
- Add chopped onions to the hot oil and sauté until they become translucent and slightly golden, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them with the oil and onion mixture.
- Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes over the green beans, including the liquid from the can.
- Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the green beans simmer slowly, stirring occasionally.
- Cook for approximately 25-30 minutes, or until the green beans are tender and have absorbed the tomato flavors.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as needed before serving hot as a classic Southern side dish.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Green Beans: For the best texture and flavor, select crisp, bright green beans without blemishes.
- Low and Slow is the Key: The secret to authentic Southern-style green beans is patience. Simmer on low heat to allow flavors to meld and beans to become wonderfully tender.
- Don't Rush the Onions: Take time to properly caramelize the onions - this builds a deep, sweet flavor foundation for the dish.
- Season Generously: Southern cooking is all about bold flavors. Don't be shy with salt and pepper, and taste as you go.
- Optional Enhancements: For extra Southern flair, consider adding a small piece of bacon or ham hock during cooking for additional depth and richness.
- Serving Suggestion: These green beans pair perfectly with cornbread, roasted meats, or as part of a traditional Southern Sunday dinner spread.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 20g
Protein: 3g
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
