String Or Green Snap Beans Recipe

String or Green Snap Beans Recipe

History:

String beans, also known as green snap beans, are a popular vegetable that has been enjoyed for centuries. The cultivation of beans dates back to ancient times, with evidence of their consumption found in archaeological sites around the world. Native to Central and South America, beans were introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers during the 16th century. They quickly spread in popularity, becoming a staple in many cuisines.

Fun Fact:

In the United States, string beans were traditionally referred to as "string" beans because of the fibrous strand that runs along the edge of the pod. However, modern cultivars have been developed to be stringless, making them easier to prepare and enjoy.

Recipe:

Ingredients:
- 1 pound string or green snap beans
- 1 tablespoon drippings or cooking oil
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon flour
- Optional:
- 6 potatoes, diced
- Cream or milk for added richness
- Butter for added flavor

Instructions:

1. Start by preparing the string or green snap beans. Cut off the tops and bottoms of the beans and carefully remove the strings running along the edges, if present. Break the beans into pieces about an inch long.

2. Place the prepared beans in a bowl of cold water with a little salt and let them soak for ten to fifteen minutes. This helps to remove any dirt and crisp up the beans.

3. While the beans are soaking, heat one tablespoon of drippings or cooking oil in a stew-pan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and parsley to the pan and cover. Allow them to stew for about ten minutes, or until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.

4. Drain the soaked beans and add them to the stew-pan with the onion and parsley. Stir everything together, coating the beans with the flavors from the onion and parsley.

5. Cover the stew-pan and continue to stew the beans until they become tender. This usually takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on the freshness and size of the beans.

6. Once the beans are tender, add one tablespoon of flour to the stew-pan. The flour helps to thicken the cooking liquid and creates a nice coating on the beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste and stir well to combine.

7. For additional flavor and texture, you can also add diced potatoes to the beans. Peel and dice about six potatoes and add them to the stew-pan. This adds a hearty touch to the dish.

8. If desired, you can use cream or milk instead of soup stock to enrich the flavor of the beans. Add a generous amount of cream or milk to the stew-pan and stir well. The dairy will add a creamy and rich taste to the dish.

9. Alternatively, you can enhance the flavor with a pat of butter. Add a tablespoon of butter to the stew-pan and let it melt into the beans, giving them a delicious buttery taste.

10. Continue to simmer the beans for an additional 5-10 minutes, allowing all the flavors to meld together. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.

11. Once the beans and potatoes are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the stew-pan from the heat.

12. Serve the string or green snap beans hot as a side dish alongside your favorite main course. They pair well with roasted meats, grilled fish, or even as part of a vegetarian meal.

Similar Recipe Dishes:

String or green snap beans are a versatile vegetable and can be used in various recipes. Here are a few other delicious ways to enjoy them:

1. Stir-Fried String Beans with Garlic: Heat some oil in a wok or skillet, add minced garlic and stir-fry until fragrant. Add the string beans and toss until cooked but still crisp. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper for a quick and flavorful side dish.

2. String Bean Salad: Blanch the string beans in boiling water until crisp-tender, then transfer them to an ice bath to cool. Toss the cooled beans with cherry tomatoes, sliced red onion, feta cheese, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing and vibrant salad.

3. String Beans with Almonds: Toast some slivered almonds in a dry skillet until golden brown. In a separate pan, sauté the string beans in olive oil until tender. Toss the cooked beans with the toasted almonds, a squeeze of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of salt for a nutty and nutritious side dish.

No matter how you prepare them, string or green snap beans are a delicious and nutritious addition to any meal.