Wing-Ding Macaroni Casserole

Directions

1. 1
   Wash and drain a batch of firm green beans.
2. 2
   Remove ends and strings.
3. 3
   Use a large darning needle with heavy white thread and thread through the pod near the middle of each bean, pushing them along the thread so that they are about 1/4-inch apart.
4. 4
   Hang up strings of beans in a warm, well-ventilated place to dry.
5. 5
   They will shrivel and turn greenish gray.
6. 6
   Cover with warm water and soak overnight.
7. 7
   Drain, renew water and parboil slowly for a half hour.
8. 8
   Drain again.
9. 9
   Cook slowly with ham hock or salted pork until tender.