Using a colander, thoroughly drain green beans. Set aside.
Mix the water, sugar and pepper until well incorporated. Set aside.
Preheat your cooking pan to Medium High heat.
Raw Bacon Method.
Using a cutting board and a knife, dice the raw bacon into equal size pieces. Place the diced bacon into the preheated cooking pan. Continually stir the bacon with a large spoon to keep the bacon from burning.
Once the bacon is cooked add the onions and cook until they are tender and light brown.
Diced, Cooked Ham Method.
Using a cutting board and a knife, dice the cooked ham into equal size pieces. Place the diced ham and onions into the preheated cooking pan.
Using the large spoon, continue to stir the ham and onions until the ham is lightly brown and the onions are tender.
Now that the onions are tender add the liquid mixture and the beans.
Using the rubber spatula stir the mixture until incorporated.
Bring mixture to a boil and turn heat to simmer. Serve beans as soon as you are ready.