Georgia - The Peach State, State flower: Cherokee rose

1. Country Captain Chicken
2. Grits Souffle
3. Plantation Green Beans
4. Popovers
5. Georgia Peach Pie

Plantation Green Beans - Serves 4

4 slices lean bacon, cut into ½" dice
½ cup thinly sliced scallion rounds
1 pound green beans, washed and trimmed
1 Tbsp cold water
1 tsp salt
¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper
1-½ Tbsp red wine vinegar
2 Tbsp finely cut fresh mint leaves (optional)

Fry the bacon dice in a 10 to 12" enameled or stainless steel sauté pan or skillet, turn frequently until they are brown and crisp having rendered all their fat. Transfer with a slotted spoon to paper towels to drain.

Drop the scallions into the remaining bacon fat and, stirring occasionally, cook over moderate heat for 3 or 4 minutes until soft but not brown. Add the beans; stir constantly until they glisten with the fat. Add the tablespoon of water and cover the pan tightly. Cook over low heat for 5 minutes, then, uncover the pan and continue to cook until the beans are tender but still slightly resistant to the bite. Sprinkle with the salt and pepper, stir in the vinegar and remove from heat. Garnish with the bacon bits and, if you like, the cut mint leaves.

Click on State name...it will take you to its menu and recipes.