How to Make Pennsylvania Dutch Green Beans

This Pennsylvania Dutch green beans recipe is a true classic, offering a delightful blend of sweet, sour, and savory flavors. Fresh green beans are paired with coated in a tangy vinegar sauce that’s both easy to make and full of traditional charm. Whether you’re looking to add a unique side dish to your lunch (steak, chicken, potatoes…) or need a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Pennsylvania Dutch Green Beans Recipe

Recipe by kenza

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking time

minutes

Calories

110

kcal

This bacon-free Pennsylvania Dutch green beans recipe delivers all the sweet-and-sour goodness of the traditional dish while staying vegetarian-friendly. Perfect for any meal!

Ingredients

1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil (or butter for a richer flavor)
1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup water
2 tablespoons sugar
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon flour (optional for thickening)

Directions

Prepare the green beans: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 8-10 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the onion: Heat olive oil or butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened and translucent, about 5 minutes.
Make the sauce: Add the apple cider vinegar, water, and sugar to the skillet. Stir well and bring the mixture to a simmer. If you prefer a thicker sauce, sprinkle in 1 tablespoon of flour and whisk until smooth.
Combine and serve: Return the green beans to the skillet. Toss everything together until the green beans are well coated in the sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve hot.

Notes

You can substitute olive oil with butter for a richer flavor.
Feel free to add a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness, reminiscent of bacon flavor.
Increase the sugar by 1-2 tablespoons for a slightly sweeter version.

Tips for the Recipe:

Fresh vs. canned beans: While fresh beans provide the best flavor and texture, canned or frozen green beans can be used for convenience. Just be mindful of their cooking time.
Adjusting the sauce consistency: If the sauce is too thin, a bit of flour can help thicken it. Whisk the flour into the pan while the sauce simmers for a smooth consistency.
Balance the flavors: If the dish tastes too tangy, add an extra teaspoon of sugar. If it’s too sweet, a splash of extra vinegar can help balance it out.

Variants of Pennsylvania Dutch green beans Recipe:

Creamy variation: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream to the sauce for a creamier version.
Spicy twist: Include red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.
Vinegar variation: Use white vinegar or red wine vinegar instead of apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.

Other suggested Servings to Pair with Pennsylvania Dutch green beans Recipe:

Beef steak
Roasted chicken chops
Mashed potatoes
Warm bread rolls or cornbread
Pickled vegetables or a simple green salad
Sautéed Shiitake Mushroom

And if you want another simple and delicious green beans recipe, check out the Campbell Soup Green Bean Casserole Recipe!

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I make this recipe in advance?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the skillet.

Can I use frozen green beans?

Yes, just be sure to thaw and drain them before adding them to the skillet.

The Pennsylvania Dutch green beans recipe is a fantastic side dish that brings comfort and flavor to any meal. Its balance of sweetness and tartness is hard to resist. Easy to prepare and versatile, it can complement everything from roasted meats to simple salads. Try it once, and you’ll find yourself reaching for this recipe again and again.