Introduction
Green beans are a versatile and nutritious vegetable that can elevate any meal. This recipe combines fresh green beans with the rich flavors of bacon and garlic, creating a delicious side dish that is perfect for family gatherings or weekday dinners. Simple yet satisfying, this dish captures the essence of comfort food.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
4 slices bacon, chopped
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 pounds fresh green beans, washed and trimmed
3 cups chicken broth
2 tablespoons butter
Salt and pepper to taste
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
Total Time: 1 hour 55 minutes
Yield: Serves 4-6
This recipe not only enhances the fresh taste of green beans but also adds a savory twist with the incorporation of bacon and garlic. It’s an easy preparation that will leave your guests asking for seconds! Enjoy the warm, comforting flavors of this delightful green bean dish at your next meal.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook Bacon and Onions
Heat a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and diced onions. Sauté until the bacon is nearly cooked, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking.
Step 2: Add Garlic
Add the minced garlic to the pan with the bacon and onions. Continue cooking until the bacon becomes crispy and the garlic is fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 3: Remove Mixture from Pan
Carefully remove the bacon, onion, and garlic mixture from the pan, leaving the bacon drippings behind. Store this mixture in the refrigerator until needed later.
Step 4: Cook Green Beans
Pour the chicken broth into the pan with the bacon drippings and add the washed and trimmed green beans. Bring the broth to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan and let it simmer for 1 to 1½ hours, stirring occasionally, until the green beans are tender.
Step 5: Combine Ingredients
Reintroduce the reserved bacon mixture and the butter back into the pan. Stir well to combine all the ingredients. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 6: Simmer and Serve
Allow the mixture to simmer for an additional 10 minutes for the flavors to meld. Once done, drain the green beans gently and serve the dish warm.
Notes
Storage
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.
Variations
You can add other vegetables such as carrots or potatoes for a heartier dish. Adjust cooking times as necessary based on the added ingredients.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs well with roasted meats or can be served as a hearty side for a vegetarian meal. Consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sautéing is a cooking method that involves stirring food quickly in a small amount of fat, typically over medium to high heat. In this recipe, the bacon and onions are sautéed in a saucepan to cook them until the bacon is nearly done and the onions become translucent.
Simmering
Simmering is a gentle cooking technique that involves heating liquid to just below its boiling point, allowing food to cook slowly and evenly. In this recipe, the green beans are simmered in chicken broth for 1 to 1½ hours, ensuring they become tender without losing flavor.
Draining
Draining is the process of removing excess liquid from food after cooking. In this recipe, the green beans are drained after simmering to enhance their texture and flavor before serving.
FAQ
Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen green beans; however, they may require a shorter cooking time as they are already blanched before freezing.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth or water, although this may alter the flavor of the dish slightly.
How can I make this recipe vegetarian?
To make this recipe vegetarian, omit the bacon and use oil for sautéing, and replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.
How do I adjust the seasoning?
You can adjust the seasoning by adding salt and pepper to taste towards the end of cooking, allowing you to better gauge the flavor after all ingredients are combined.
Can I store leftovers?
Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat before serving.
Conclusion
This hearty green bean dish, enhanced by the rich flavors of bacon and sautéed onions, serves as a delicious side that’s perfect for any meal. The slow simmering in chicken broth ensures the beans are tender and flavorful, making it a comforting and satisfying addition to your dining table.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Green Beans with Almonds
Sauté green beans with sliced almonds and a touch of lemon zest for a bright, nutty flavor.
Garlic Parmesan Green Beans
Toss cooked green beans in melted butter, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese for a cheesy twist.
Spicy Green Beans
Add red pepper flakes and sesame oil to your green beans for a spicy Asian-inspired side dish.
Green Bean Casserole
Combine cooked green beans with cream of mushroom soup and top with crispy fried onions for a classic comfort food.
Green Beans with Cherry Tomatoes
Sauté green beans with halved cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a light, fresh summer side.
Roasted Green Beans
Toss green beans with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder, then roast in the oven until crispy.
