Prepare to transform the humble green bean into a mouthwatering masterpiece that will have your family and friends begging for seconds! Our Bacon Braised Green Beans aren't just a side dish - they're a flavor-packed journey through Southern culinary tradition that elevates simple vegetables into an irresistible comfort food experience. With crispy bacon, tender green beans, and a rich, savory profile, this recipe promises to turn even the most reluctant vegetable eater into a green bean enthusiast.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 onion, sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly and trim off the tough ends. Pat the green beans dry with a clean kitchen towel or paper towels to ensure they will crisp up nicely when cooking.
- In a large skillet or cast-iron pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and renders its fat. This should take approximately 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.
- Using a slotted spoon, remove the crispy bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate, leaving the bacon fat in the skillet.
- In the same skillet with bacon fat, add the sliced onions. Sauté the onions over medium heat until they become soft and translucent, which typically takes about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic to the onions and cook for an additional 30-45 seconds, being careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet and toss them in the bacon fat, onions, and garlic to coat evenly.
- Pour the chicken broth into the skillet, then season the green beans with salt and black pepper to taste. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Cover the skillet and reduce the heat to low. Allow the green beans to braise for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they become tender but still maintain a slight crispness.
- Uncover the skillet and increase the heat to medium-high for the last 2-3 minutes to help any remaining liquid evaporate and slightly caramelize the green beans.
- Sprinkle the reserved crispy bacon pieces over the braised green beans just before serving, adding a delightful crunch and smoky flavor to the dish.
- Transfer the Bacon Braised Green Beans to a serving dish and serve hot as a delicious side dish that pairs well with roasted meats or as part of a Southern-style meal.
Tips
- Always start with fresh, crisp green beans and pat them completely dry to ensure proper caramelization.
- Use thick-cut bacon for maximum flavor and a more substantial crispy texture.
- Don't rush the bacon rendering process - low and slow creates the best fat for cooking.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can quickly turn bitter and ruin the dish's flavor.
- For extra depth, consider adding a splash of apple cider vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use a cast-iron skillet if possible, as it provides the best heat distribution and flavor development.
- Let the green beans braise gently to maintain their texture - you want them tender but not mushy.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 5g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
