1-1/2 lbs. fresh green beans
2 Tbsp chopped onion
2 cloves garlic, halved
3 Tbsp vegetable oil
1/2 cup boiling water
1 tsp dried basil
1/2 tsp sugar
1/2 tsp salt
1/4 tsp pepper
Wash beans, trim ends, and remove strings. Cut in half crosswise.
Cook onion and garlic slowly in oil in a skillet over medium heat, stirring constantly, until onion is tender. Do not overcook onion! Discard garlic. Add beans, boiling water, and remaining ingredients, cover and cook 25 minutes or until beans are tender. Add 1 to 2 Tbsp additional water if necessary.
Serves 6