"To Be Real" Delicious and Easy Southern Green Beans {Recipe}

Southern green beans with salt pork and smoked bacon: a classic dish bursting with savory flavors. Tender green beans simmered to perfection, infused with the rich essence of salt pork and smoky bacon, creating a delightful Southern comfort side.

Related Beans Recipe Posts:

• Smothered Green Beans With Potatoes
• Instant Pot Sauteed Green Beans
• Air Fryer Green Beans

I love green beans, and if you're looking for a soulful Southern green beans recipe that will make your taste buds sing, this is it! Smoked bacon and salt pork give these beans their delicious flavor, while the cider vinegar provides balance with a bit of acidity.

This is soul food! Welcome to the comforting world of Southern cuisine, where every bite tells a story of love and tradition. Today, we invite you to savor the goodness of our Southern Green Beans recipe, a soul-warming dish that embodies the essence of down-home cooking.

Imagine tender green beans simmered low and slow, their vibrant color preserved as they soak up the flavors of smoky bacon fat, aromatic onions, and richly seasoned broth. With each spoonful, your taste buds will be transported to a place where simplicity and flavor intertwine, where every ingredient sings in perfect harmony.

Get ready to experience the heart and soul of the South through the luscious flavors of our Southern Green Beans – a side dish that will evoke memories of family gatherings, Sunday suppers, and the unmistakable warmth of a lovingly prepared home-cooked meal.

Where I’m from Southern Green Beans means fresh string beans cooked low and slow with lots of pork to full-flavored tenderness.

Bacon is usually the pork of choice, as you get that smoky meatiness that enriches the beans with that added level of flavor.

These green beans are simple to make, but the results are amazing. The key is patience and seasoning.

The seasoning comes from the fresh green beans themselves, plus the salty, smoked pork plus the spice seasoning.

Beats and Eats (music to pair with Southern Green Beans)

I’ve seen plenty of green bean recipes using canned green beans. This ain’t that kind of recipe. Keep it real and fresh, fresh only!

The soulful energy of Tank and The Bangas' song "To Be Real" harmoniously pairs with the comforting flavors of Southern Green Beans, creating a vibrant culinary and musical experience. Just as the green beans simmer and mingle with savory bacon and aromatic seasonings, the infectious rhythms and expressive vocals of "To Be Real" infuse the atmosphere with a contagious sense of joy and authenticity.

The song's lively beat and uplifting lyrics perfectly complement the homestyle goodness of the dish, creating a synergy that elevates the dining experience. As you savor each spoonful of the tender green beans, the music's infectious energy will have you tapping your feet and swaying to the rhythm, heightening the enjoyment and connecting you to the soulful essence of Southern cuisine.

Tank and The Bangas' vibrant melodies and the heartwarming flavors of Southern Green Beans combine to create a harmonious symphony that celebrates the richness of culture, the love of good food, and the power of music to uplift the spirit.

Southern Green Bean Ingredients

These simple yet essential ingredients come together to create a side dish that epitomizes the comforting flavors of Southern cooking. Get ready to savor the tender green beans, infused with the smoky goodness of bacon, the aroma of onions and garlic, and a delightful blend of seasonings.

Each bite will transport you to the heart of Southern hospitality, where the pleasure of good food and cherished traditions blend into one unforgettable experience. To prepare a delightful batch of Southern Green Beans, you will need the following ingredients:

1. Fresh Green Beans: Choose crisp and vibrant green beans, free from any blemishes or discoloration. Trim the ends and remove any strings if necessary.
2. Pork: Smoky bacon adds depth of flavor to the dish. Use thick-cut bacon, chopped into small pieces, to infuse the green beans with its savory essence. Salt pork also adds that meaty pork flavor. Ham hocks or any other smoked pork or smoked turkey meats can make for good substitutes.
3. Onion: A sweet or yellow onion, finely diced, adds a mellow and aromatic base to the dish.
4. Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves, minced, lend a delightful pungency and depth to the green beans. Use garlic powder if fresh garlic is unavailable
5. Chicken or Vegetable Broth: A flavorful broth serves as the cooking liquid, providing moisture and enhancing the overall taste of the green beans.
6. Seasonings: Common seasonings include salt, black pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes for a gentle kick. You can also add additional herbs and spices, such as thyme, paprika, or smoked paprika, to enhance the flavor profile.

How To Make Southern Style Green Beans with Bacon

Make Your Spice Mix

Mix allspice, paprika, salt and pepper together in small bowl.

Render the Pork Fat

Pre-heat skillet to medium heat. Add bacon and salt pork. Saute to release their flavor and create bacon drippings. Cook until bacon is fully cooked. Remove and set aside the bacon and salt pork on a paper towel lined plate.

Build Base Flavor

Add chopped onion to the rendered bacon grease and saute for 3-4 minutes. Add chopped garlic cloves and cook another minute. Season the onion and garlic with ? of the spice mix.

Add the smoked pulled pork if using and cook for a minute or two just long enough to release the flavor.

Cook Green Beans

Add green beans and mix well to coat most of the beans in the infused bacon grease. Add the bacon and pork back to the pot. Add chicken broth/stock, water plus half the remaining seasoning. Mix well and bring to a boil then reduce to simmer on medium low heat stirring occasionally.

Cook covered for at least an hour as beans turn bright green but cooking time will likely be 1 ½ - 2 hours. Halfway through cooking add remaining spices.

Remove from heat, add green beans to a bowl, and serve. Adjust seasoning as needed.

What To Serve With Green Beans

Consider a few pairings to go with your Southern green beans servings. Here are a few options options to create a well-rounded meal:

1. Fried Chicken: A classic pairing, crispy and succulent fried chicken perfectly complements the comforting flavors of Southern Green Beans. The combination of tender meat and flavorful beans creates a satisfying and satisfyingly indulgent meal.
2. Cornbread: Serve warm cornbread alongside the green beans for a quintessential Southern experience. The crumbly texture and slightly sweet taste of cornbread beautifully balance the savory flavors of the beans.
3. Smoked Ham: Slices of smoky, savory smoked ham make for a mouthwatering pairing with the Southern Green Beans. The rich and meaty flavors of the ham add depth and a delightful contrast to the vibrant green beans.
4. Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a comforting and hearty addition to the meal. The smooth texture and mild taste of the potatoes provide a neutral base that complements the flavors of the green beans.
5. Buttermilk Biscuits: Light and fluffy buttermilk biscuits are a delicious accompaniment to Southern Green Beans. Their buttery, tender interior and golden crust provide a delightful contrast to the crisp-tender beans.
6. Grilled or Roasted Chicken: For a lighter option, consider serving grilled or roasted chicken alongside the green beans. The savory and juicy chicken pairs well with the flavors of the dish while offering a healthier alternative.
7. macaroni and cheese: Creamy, cheesy macaroni and cheese is a crowd-pleasing side that adds indulgence and richness to the meal. Its velvety texture and savory flavors complement the green beans perfectly.

Variations on the Recipe

While Southern Green Beans are delightful on their own, there are several variations you can explore to add a twist to the classic recipe. Here are some creative ideas to infuse new flavors into your dish:

1. Bacon and Onion: Enhance the traditional recipe by adding caramelized onions to the green beans. Sauté the onions with the bacon until golden and fragrant before adding the green beans and broth. This variation adds an extra layer of sweetness and depth to the dish.
2. Garlic and Lemon: For a bright and zesty twist, incorporate freshly squeezed lemon juice and minced garlic into the recipe. Sauté the garlic briefly in butter or olive oil before adding the green beans, then finish with a squeeze of lemon juice. The citrusy notes and aromatic garlic elevate the flavors of the beans.
3. Southern-Style Spiced: Add a touch of spice to your green beans by incorporating Southern spices like smoked paprika, cayenne pepper, or a hint of hot sauce. These ingredients infuse the dish with a pleasant heat and smoky undertones, elevating the flavor profile.
4. Tomato and Herb: Introduce diced tomatoes to the recipe for a tangy and vibrant variation. Sauté the tomatoes with the bacon and onions before adding the green beans. Enhance the herbaceous notes by adding fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or parsley.
5. Southern Green Bean Casserole: Transform the dish into a comforting casserole by layering green beans, bacon, onions, and a creamy sauce in a baking dish. Top with a crispy breadcrumb and Parmesan cheese mixture, then bake until golden and bubbling. This variation adds a comforting twist and is perfect for potlucks and holiday gatherings.
6. Vegan/Vegetarian: Create a vegan or vegetarian version by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Sauté the green beans with garlic, onions, and a variety of herbs and spices for a flavorful plant-based twist.

These variations offer exciting opportunities to put a unique spin on Southern Green Beans, allowing you to explore different flavors and adapt the recipe to suit your preferences. Feel free to experiment, mix and match, and embrace the versatility of this beloved Southern side dish.

Cooking green beans tips and considerations

Traditional Southern Green Beans are cooked with either bacon or salt pork or both. The added pulled pork was just me being a nerd about flavor and elevating an already great green beans recipe. If you’ve followed me then you’re probably familiar with my cabbage cooked in smoked brisket fat cap. This is a similar technique.

Use fresh green beans. They will hold up to the long slow simmer. 

To speed up prep time use kitchen shears to snip the ends off the green beans.

Do not rush things. The key to the best green beans is to let them simmer for a good while.

Save the flavorful broth or pot likker and use in other dishes. I use it to cook rice or grits.

Add a little brininess at the end of cooking. A small taste of cider or red wine vinegar helps to cut through the fat and brighten the dish up some. I do not recommend balsamic vinegar however as it has a much stronger and distinct flavor.

I'm not much of a slow cooker person, but you can definitely use one to make this recipe. Just be sure to sear/brown the bacon and pork before adding to the slow cooker.

This recipe is pork heavy. For texture sometimes I like to fry up some crispy bacon and then top the beans with the bacon pieces as a finishing touch.

Some recipes call for potatoes. I will on occasion add them, particular red potatoes.

Serve these green beans with jerk fried chicken and pair with another side like Fried Cabbage, Mac and cheese, butter beans, or mashed potatoes. Also feel free to check this guide of popular soul food meat dishes for pairing options.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Cooking Southern Green Beans

Can You Make Things With Frozen Green Beans?

You can but I recommend thawing them out first. Fair warning - the best Southern style green beans use fresh beans, but you can still achieve greatness with frozen ones. Cooking time may vary a bit, but nothing major.

Are Southern Green Beans made with those Flat Green Beans?

They can be, but Southern style typically uses long string beans with the skinny tips on the end that you have to trim off. I spent a lot of time as my grandma's sous chef picking green beans lol. Not a fun job but somebody's got to do it.

How Would You Make These With Canned Beans?

I prefer to start by rinsing them first. My manin goal is to get rid of as much of that metallic taste as I can before I start cooking. These will be a much shorter cooking time. You essentially follow the same steps but will likely need at most 30 minutes before the texture starts to drastically change.

Can I Make Southern Green Beans Without Pork?

Down South we love to live high on the hog! But in today's times for health reasons many folk are definitely moving to lower cholesterol and leaner substitutes. Smoked turkey like wings, necks, or tails are popular and effective. I don't recommend turkey bacon if you're looking for a bacon substitute.

For More Delicious Recipes Try These:

Smothered Green Beans w/ Potatoes

Instant Pot Cuban Black Beans

Smoky Butter Beans

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice

Sheet Pan Greens and New Potatoes

Instant Pot Creole Tomatoes and Green Beans

Southern Potato Salad

Smoked Rib Tips

make this recipe

Everybody should add green beans to their side dish rotation. The next time you’re looking for a green bean recipe, consider giving this soul food version a try. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can have a delicious side dish that will complement any meal.

If you make this comforting Southern Green Beans recipe, please come back and leave me a comment below with your feedback. Definitely take a photo of the dish and be sure to tag #foodfidelity so that I can see them.

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