Super green beans

4 c. fresh green beans
2 T. butter or bacon drippings
1/2 tsp. salt
2 tsp chives
1/4 c. boiling water
1/4 c. light cream
1/8 tsp. pepper

Select tender green beans that snap easily. Wash, trim off ends and remove any strings. Place in bundles on cutting board and cut in 1″ pieces. Heat butter in electric skillet or heavy saucepan with tight-fitting lid; add beans, salt, basil and boiling water. Cover; cook on high heat until steam is produced, then turn as low as possible and cook 25 to 30 minutes, shaking pan occasionally and watching at the last to be sure beans do not burn (they should be barely tender). Add cream and pepper; serve at once. Makes about 4 servings.