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Southern Style Green Beans with Bacon is an essential comfort food dish, renowned for its savory depth and hearty simplicity. This recipe is all about getting the most out of fresh green beans and enhancing them with the smoky richness of bacon. A perfect side dish for gatherings or as a stand-alone midweek meal.
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- Cuisine: Southern
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Brings out the natural sweetness of green beans through slow simmering.
- Layers of flavor from simple ingredients make it comforting yet refined.
- Smoky bacon adds an irresistible aroma and taste.
- Minimal hands-on time makes it an easy side for busy nights.
Ingredients
- 4 slices bacon (cut into 1 inch pieces): Provides smoky flavor and richness. Use turkey bacon as a lighter substitute.
- 1 1/2 pound green beans (trimmed): The main star of the dish, offering crunch and freshness.
- 1/2 cup chopped yellow onion: Adds sweetness and depth. Substitute with white onion if needed.
- 1 cup chicken broth: Enhances flavor and tenderness. Vegetable broth can be used as a substitute.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red peppers: Offers a mild heat to balance the fatty bacon.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning. Adjust as necessary.
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper: Adds final seasoning and depth.
How to Make It
Step 1: Brown the Bacon
In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the bacon until it’s browned and crispy. This step not only renders the fat, which infuses the entire dish with flavor, but also provides a crunchy texture as a topping.
Step 2: Prepare the Onions and Peppers
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet. In the same skillet, add chopped onions and crushed red peppers. Sauté for 1-2 minutes until the onions are translucent. This helps build the flavor base for the beans.
Step 3: Simmer the Green Beans
Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and toss well to coat them with the onion mixture. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the beans are mostly submerged. Cover the skillet and turn the heat to low, allowing the beans to simmer gently for 1 to 1 1/2 hours until tender. The slow cooking ensures the beans absorb all the savory flavors.
Step 4: Final Touch with Bacon
Once the beans are tender, sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the beans. Let them cook just long enough to warm through, about 2-3 minutes. This integration adds the finishing touch and reintroduces the smoky aroma.
Step 5: Season and Serve
Finally, season the dish to taste with salt and fresh cracked black pepper before serving. Adjust seasoning based on preference and enjoy the harmonious mix of textures and flavors.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, though fresh will provide a better texture. If using frozen, adjust simmering time as they might cook faster.
What should I do if the beans are too crunchy after simmering?
If after the recommended simmering time the beans are not tender, continue cooking a bit longer, checking every 10 minutes, while making sure there’s still enough broth to prevent burning.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this recipe can be made a day in advance. Prepare as directed, then refrigerate. Reheat gently over low heat before serving.
