Runner Beans with Caramelised Red Onions

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  900g (2lbs) runner beans
  
  
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  2 large red onions, peeled and halved
  
  
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  1 level teaspoon soft brown sugar
  
  
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  2cm (1in) piece of ginger, peeled and grated
  
  
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  2 cloves of garlic, chopped
  
  
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  3 tablespoons olive oil
  
  
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  Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  

De-string the beans and slice diagonally into 5cm/2in pieces.

Cut the red onion halves into thin slices. Heat the oil in a large frying pan and fry the onions over a low heat until soft and tender, gradually adding the sugar, ginger, garlic  and seasoning.

Stir well from time to time. They are ready when the onions become slightly sticky and caramelised. (This may take 15-20 minutes.)

While the onions are cooking, cook the beans in a pan of boiling salted water until just tender.

Drain the beans and refresh under cold water. Stir into the cooked onion mixture, taste for seasoning and serve.