If you’re looking for a dish that embodies the heart and soul of Southern cooking, look no further than Southern Green Beans with Bacon! This mouthwatering recipe combines the fresh crunch of green beans with the savory goodness of crispy bacon, creating a side dish that’s sure to steal the show at your next family gathering or dinner party. With just a handful of simple ingredients and a cooking time of under an hour, you’ll be able to whip up a flavorful masterpiece that will have everyone asking for seconds. Ready to elevate your vegetable game? Let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Southern
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 onion, chopped
- 2 cups chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Wash the fresh green beans thoroughly and trim off the ends, removing any tough or stringy parts.
- In a large cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crisp and renders its fat, approximately 5-7 minutes.
- Add the chopped onions to the bacon and its rendered fat, sautéing until the onions become translucent and slightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet, stirring to coat them with the bacon fat and onions.
- Pour the chicken broth over the green beans, ensuring they are mostly submerged in the liquid.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the green beans simmer slowly, stirring occasionally, until they become tender and most of the liquid has reduced, approximately 25-30 minutes.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, ensuring the beans are soft but not mushy.
- Remove from heat and let the green beans rest for 2-3 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with the crispy bacon pieces from the skillet.
Tips
- Choose Fresh Beans: For the best flavor and texture, opt for fresh green beans. Look for beans that are bright green and snap easily when bent.
- Don’t Rush the Bacon: Allow the bacon to cook slowly over medium heat to render the fat properly. This will give your dish a rich, smoky flavor.
- Adjust the Broth: If you prefer a more intense flavor, consider using low-sodium chicken broth or adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce for an extra depth.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low while simmering the green beans to ensure they cook evenly and become tender without losing their vibrant color.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your dish before serving. Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to suit your palate, ensuring the perfect balance of flavors.
- Garnish with Extra Bacon: For a delightful finishing touch, sprinkle some additional crispy bacon on top before serving. It adds a nice crunch and visual appeal!
- Pairing Suggestions: These green beans pair wonderfully with Southern staples like fried chicken, cornbread, or a hearty pot roast, making them a versatile side dish for any meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 8g
Protein: 6g
Fat: 8g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Cholesterol: 15mg
