Although it’s not mentioned on the card, I think this might be our first microwave recipe. I arrive at this deduction because of the “cook on high” reference, and the short amount of time to cook the onion and bacon. Some may argue that this doesn’t sound very grandmotherly, but the first commercially viable microwave oven was produced in 1947! My mom was around at that time AND she is a grandmother, so therefore in my mind this qualifies it. :-) However, the home microwave wasn’t very popular until the 1970s, even though the celebrated Radarange had been available for over 25 years. The price point just wasn’t something that most folks could afford, and there were (unfounded) fears of radiation from the food. These days, it is surprising when a home does not have a microwave installed, and they have become a requirement in the modern kitchen. And all due to a chocolate bar melting in a researcher’s pocket.

Snappy Great Beans (Bingham Collection)

1 lb green beans

1/2 cup water

4 bacon slices

1/4 cup onion

1 tbsp tarragon vinegar

Pepper to taste

Remove ends, strings, wash, drain beans. Place in casserole with water. Cook 10-14 minutes on high til tender, stir occasionally, 5-10 minutes standing.

Cook bacon in pie plate 4 minutes til crisp. Remove bacon, add onion to drippings and cook 2 minutes til tender. Add remaining ingredients. Pour over beans, crumble bacon over top. Serves 3-4.