Birnen, Bohnen und Speck

This traditional North German specialty uses a combination of pears, green beans, and bacon (birnen, bohnen und speck in German), yielding a uniquely flavored dish. Peeled and cored cooking pears (kochbirnen) are simmered with French beans or string beans along with pieces of smoked streaky bacon until tender. They're cooked in an aromatic broth which is seasoned with summer savory, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper. Sweet, savory, and smoky, the dish has been traditionally prepared from late summer through early fall, and it is typically enjoyed with a side of potatoes or German dumplings (klößen).