Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

Main Ingredients:

  • 500 g (1 lb) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 4 medium potatoes (Yukon Gold or red potatoes work best), diced into bite-sized cubes
  • 200 g (7 oz) bacon, chopped into small pieces
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

Seasonings:

  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp paprika (smoked paprika preferred)
  • ½ tsp dried thyme (optional)
  • ½ tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)

Optional Add-ins:

  • 1 tbsp butter (for extra richness)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
  • Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

🔪 Preparation Steps

1. Prepare the Vegetables

  • Wash and trim the green beans (remove ends).
  • Cut potatoes into evenly sized cubes so they cook evenly.
  • Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic.

2. Parboil the Potatoes

  • Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Add diced potatoes and cook for about 5–7 minutes (they should be slightly tender but not fully cooked).
  • Drain and set aside.

3. Cook the Bacon

  • Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat.
  • Add chopped bacon and cook until crispy.
  • Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside.
  • Leave about 2–3 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pan (this adds flavor).

4. Cook the Potatoes

  • Add the parboiled potatoes to the skillet with the bacon fat.
  • Cook over medium heat, turning occasionally, until golden brown and crispy (about 10–12 minutes).
  • Remove and set aside if pan gets crowded.

5. Cook the Green Beans

  • In the same skillet, add green beans.
  • Sauté for about 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender but still slightly crisp.
  • Add a splash of water and cover for 2–3 minutes if needed to soften them.

6. Add Aromatics

  • Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent (about 3–4 minutes).
  • Stir in garlic and cook for 30–60 seconds until fragrant.

7. Combine Everything

  • Return potatoes and bacon to the skillet.
  • Mix everything together thoroughly.

8. Season & Finish

  • Add salt, pepper, paprika, thyme, and chili flakes.
  • Stir well and cook for another 2–3 minutes so flavors blend.
  • Add butter if desired for richness.

9. Garnish & Serve

  • Sprinkle fresh parsley on top.
  • Serve hot directly from the skillet.

🍽️ Serving Suggestions

  • Serve as a side with grilled chicken, steak, or roasted meat
  • Add a fried or poached egg on top for a complete meal
  • Pair with crusty bread for a rustic dinner

🔥 Tips for Best Results

  • Use waxy potatoes (like Yukon Gold) so they hold shape.
  • Don’t overcrowd the pan—this helps everything crisp instead of steam.
  • Cook bacon until truly crispy for the best texture contrast.
  • Add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice at the end for brightness.

🧊 Storage & Reheating

Reheat in a skillet for best texture (microwave works but softens the potatoes)

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days