SIMPLE AND CRISPY GREEN BEANS

Crispy, slightly caramelized ends. Juicy, flavorful centers. These green beans are a world away from the mushy canned variety. They’re unbelievably easy to prepare, and will have even those who think they don’t like green beans begging for seconds.

This is the way my family’s been making them for decades. Some people say cooking halves nutrient content. I say make these and you’ll want to eat twice as many! Recipe calls for frozen beans, I suppose fresh out of your garden works, too :-)

* 12 oz frozen green beans (I use Trader Joe’s French Green Beans)
* 1/4 cup water
* 2 TBSP olive oil
* 1 tsp oregano (can substitute another herb)
* 1/2 tsp garlic powder or 1 clove pressed garlic (optional)
* salt and pepper to taste

Put water, oil, and green beans in a wide chef’s pan or large skillet. Turn heat to high. Sprinkle oregano and garlic onto the green beans. Once water begins to boil, turn the temperature down to medium. Stir occasionally. The water will first cook the green beans, leaving them juicy, then the water will evaporate. If the beans aren’t cooked enough, add a tablespoon or two more water. Once the water cooks off, stir frequently and add salt and pepper. The olive oil will make the beans brown and crispy. Pairs nicely with beef. Serves 2-4

Bonus:

This recipe for southern style green beans might satisfy you. I cannot reveal my wife's family secret recipe (that includes bacon, chili powder and slivered almonds), but suffice to say it is worth the extra hour of prep time to do it right.

So try this one, I hope you enjoy it (although it won't be the best!)

Southern Style Thanksgiving Green Beans

INGREDIENTS

* 2 quarts water
* 4 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into 1 1/2 inch pieces
* 1 ham hock
* 1 onion, chopped
* 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped
* 1/4 cup distilled white vinegar
* 1 tablespoon salt
* 1/2 tablespoon black pepper

DIRECTIONS

1. Place the water in a large pot, and mix in the green beans, ham hock, onion, garlic, and vinegar. Season with salt and pepper. Bring to a boil, and cook 10 minutes.
2. Reduce heat to low, and simmer 4 hours. Remove the ham hock, and slice the meat into small pieces. Return meat to the beans, and serve.
Source(s):
http://eatinginisin.com/2009/02/05/crispy-green-beans/
http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Southern-Style-Thanksgiving-Green-Beans/Detail...

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