Southern green beans, sometimes called "smothered", are cooked low and slow to soak up every bit of flavor. With my method you'll get all that smoky, tangy flavor in under 30 minutes!
0 Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
1 Add the green beans and simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, or until they are as tender as you like them.
2 Drain and set aside.
3 Heat a heavy skillet and add bacon.
4 Cook, stirring often, until the bacon is crispy.
5 Add the onions and saute until they begin to soften.
6 Add the garlic and saute 2 minutes.
7 Add in the flour and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 minutes.
8 Stir in the stock, seasoned salt, vinegar, and sugar.
9 Simmer, stirring often, until thickened.
10 Add the drained beans (and potatoes if you are using them).
11 Stir until the green beans are covered in the sauce.
12 Simmer for about 3 minutes, stirring often, until the green beans are heated through.
13 Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.
