When I was a girl, there was such a thing as the Old Country – the place where the world still operated with magic and must. Small old men with thick accents knew languages that had intensity, a depth of experience that ordinary talking could never meet. The ancient women’s eyes smiled with secret ways. Communities felt close and happy even without modern luxuries.
While the world has shrunk, these are Old Country beans. Cooked slowly over the lowest flame (ok, it’s a modern stove), they afford ample time for stories and ideas to bubble as the green beans slowly cook. This modest vegetable, humbly prepared, is ridiculously delicious. Without going too squishy-feely here, these beans are a reminder that even the most simple among us can be transformed with patience and time.
Enjoy alone, over rice, or as a side dish. Serves 2-4.
NOTE: For spicy addicts, you can also add a chopped hot pepper (Jalapeno, Serrano, etc) when you sauté onion and garlic.