Green Beans w/Spicy Pecans

I got this recipe years ago from Mary Tincher and it's been a staple in our holiday meals ever since. When I was the Compassionate Service Leader in my LDS ward congregation, I used this recipe for the funeral meals that we would serve. Everyone would come into the kitchen to ask for the recipe.

I always use the frozen green beans from Costco that have a fresh taste. If you want to dress it up for a Christmas meal, cut strips of red pepper and add to boiling water the last few minutes. It ends up looking very festive.

green beans, fresh or frozen

1/2 c. butter

1 c. sugar

1 c. pecans, coarsely chopped

cumin & cayenne pepper

chili powder

Cook as many green beans as you need for your recipe, boil or steam them until crisp-tender and still a bright green color (making sure to salt them as they cook). While they are cooking, melt the butter and sugar in a frying pan. Stir over med-high heat until melted. Generously sprinkle cumin & chili powder over the mixture and then ad some cayenne (not as generously as the others). Add pecans and continue to stir until they start to carmelize. Transfer green beans to a bowl and quickly toss with the nut mixture. Serve hot.