Why Southern Green Beans with Bacon?
If you’re looking for a delicious side dish that pairs well with almost anything, you’ve hit the jackpot with Southern Green Beans with Bacon. It’s a classic comfort food that brings together the freshness of green beans with the savory goodness of bacon. Seriously, who can resist that crispy bacon goodness? 🙌
This dish not only ticks the flavor box but also adds a delightful crunch and depth to your meal. It’s perfect for family gatherings, holiday feasts, or just a cozy dinner at home. Bonus: It’s super easy to prepare!
How to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon Recipe
Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty of creating this mouthwatering dish. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you later!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into 2-inch pieces
- 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped into 1-inch pieces
- 1 large yellow onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 bay leaf
Directions
Prepare the Bacon Base: Start by placing the chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook the bacon slowly, stirring occasionally, for about 8-10 minutes until they’re crispy and golden brown. The goal here is to render out as much fat as possible; this is where the magic happens!
Build the Flavor Foundation: Once your bacon is crispy, grab a slotted spoon and scoop half of it out onto a paper towel-lined plate (this will be your garnish). Keep the rest and that glorious bacon fat in the pot. Toss in the diced onion and cook for about 4-5 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant. Your kitchen is about to smell divine!
Add Aromatics and Green Beans: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until it gets aromatic—don’t burn it! Add the prepared green beans and toss to coat them in that luscious bacon fat. Sprinkle in the salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), then plop in the bay leaf.
Simmer to Perfection: Pour in the chicken broth and water so that the liquid just barely covers the green beans. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to maintain a steady simmer. Cover the pot and let it work its magic for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally. Your beans should become super tender!
Final Touches: Once done, remove that bay leaf and taste for seasoning. Adjust salt and pepper as needed. If the liquid seems too much, crank up the heat and cook uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it. You want just a bit of flavorsome liquid left—kinda like a savory hug for those beans. Finally, sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon on top before serving to add that extra crunch.
How to Serve Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Serving these beauties is a piece of cake! Plop them on your dinner table next to some roasted chicken or steak, and watch as they steal the show. You can either serve them straight from the pot for a laid-back vibe or transfer them to a fancy serving dish if you’re feeling classy. 🌟 Pro tip: drizzle a little balsamic reduction for an upscale touch!
How to Store Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Leftovers? Yes, please! Store any uneaten Southern Green Beans with Bacon in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-5 days. Just reheat them on the stove over low heat or in the microwave when you’re ready for a tasty snack.
Tips to Make Southern Green Beans with Bacon Recipe
- Use Fresh Beans: Fresh green beans add a pop of flavor and texture you can’t get from frozen ones. Don’t skimp!
- Don’t Rush the Bacon: Take your time cooking the bacon. A slow render gives you more flavor.
- Season Wisely: Taste as you go. It’s your dish, after all!
Variations
Feeling adventurous? Mix it up by adding some crushed pecans or walnuts for a nutty twist, or even throw in some diced tomatoes for a fresh touch. You can also swap out the bacon for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative for a healthier version! 🌱
FAQs
1. Can I use canned green beans instead?
While you can use canned beans in a pinch, fresh green beans really shine in this dish. Canned will give you a softer texture and won’t absorb the flavors as well.
2. How do I make this dish spicier?
Add extra red pepper flakes or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for a nice kick. Just be careful—overdoing it might send you running for milk!
3. Can I freeze the leftovers?
Yes! Freeze them in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just reheat gently to preserve that delicious flavor.
So there you have it—a simple yet delightful recipe that could turn even the most hesitant green bean eater into a fan. Now, go whip up some Southern Green Beans with Bacon and treat yourself and your loved ones to a taste of comfort! 😄
Southern Green Beans with Bacon
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon for 8-10 minutes until crispy.
- Remove half of the crispy bacon with a slotted spoon onto a paper towel-lined plate and set aside for garnish.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook for 4-5 minutes until translucent.
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the prepared green beans to the pot and toss them to coat in the bacon fat.
- Sprinkle in the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes, then add the bay leaf.
- Pour in the chicken broth and water until it just covers the green beans.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to maintain a steady simmer.
- Cover the pot and cook for 35-45 minutes, stirring occasionally until the beans are tender.
- Remove the bay leaf and taste for seasoning, adjusting salt and pepper as needed.
- If there's too much liquid, cook uncovered for a few minutes to reduce it.
- Serve topped with the reserved crispy bacon.