Zydeco Beans

Zydeco Beans are a famous cajun-creole dish. "Zydeco" literally means "snap bean" and is a term used by French Creole speakers of Louisiana to describe their upbeat blend of music. Like zydeco music, it's a lively, tart and spicy dish with a bit of snap that is irresistible.
2 cups water

3/4 cup white vinegar

2 tablespoons sugar

1 tablespoon mustard seeds

4 garlic cloves, thinly sliced

4 bay leaves

2 teaspoons salt

several drops liquid hot pepper sauce, optional

1 pound green beans, trimmed

1. Combine all ingredients except the beans in a large sauce pan and bring to a boil over high heat. Cover, reduce the heat, and simmer for 5 minutes.

2. Add the beans and simmer, covered, for 10 minutes, until the beans are cooked but still crisp. Transfer the beans and liquid to a shallow serving dish and refrigerate covered for at least 4 hours, or overnight. Serve cold or at room temperature.