Gullah Green Beans

Infused with the rich culinary traditions of the Gullah Geechee culture, Gullah Green Beans are a soul-warming side dish that elevates simple ingredients into a flavor-packed masterpiece. Crisp, tender green beans simmer gently in a smoky, savory broth of chicken stock and bacon drippings, enhanced by caramelized onion, garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. A touch of apple cider vinegar and a sprinkle of smoked paprika add layers of tangy complexity, while a final flourish of crispy bacon brings an irresistible crunch. Perfect for pairing with your favorite Southern comfort foods, this dish captures the heart of Lowcountry cuisine in every bite. Whether served at a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Gullah Green Beans are guaranteed to delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 70/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:45 mins

Total Time:60 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 4 slices thick-cut bacon, diced
• 0.5 large yellow onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
• 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes

Directions

Step 1

In a large skillet or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it is crispy. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the rendered bacon fat in the skillet.

Step 2

Add the chopped onion to the skillet and sauté in the bacon fat for 3-4 minutes, until softened and translucent.

Step 3

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.

Step 4

Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and toss them to coat in the onion-garlic mixture.

Step 5

Pour the chicken broth into the skillet and bring to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let the green beans cook for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are tender but not mushy.

Step 6

Stir in the butter, apple cider vinegar, brown sugar, smoked paprika, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to ensure the green beans are coated in the seasoning.

Step 7

Cook uncovered for another 5-10 minutes, allowing the liquid to reduce slightly and the flavors to deepen.

Step 8

Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon over the top before serving.

Step 9

Serve warm as a side dish alongside your favorite Southern entrees.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(879.0g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	708.1

Total Fat 49.0g	0%
Saturated Fat 22.1g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0g
Cholesterol 102mg	0%
Sodium 2342.8mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 48.0g	0%
Dietary Fiber 15.0g	0%
Total Sugars 22.0g
Protein 34.5g	0%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 240.4mg	0%
Iron 6.8mg	0%
Potassium 1598.0mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 57.2%

Protein: 17.9%

Carbs: 24.9%