Crack Green Beans

Green beans often take the backseat on dinner tables, but not when they’re prepared in this indulgent style. Crack Green Beans are a delightful twist on the classic vegetable side dish, combining crispy bacon, a sweet and savory glaze, and bright green beans. This recipe not only brings out the best in fresh produce, but it also appeals to the taste buds of kids and adults alike, making it a fantastic addition to any meal. Whether you’re hosting a holiday feast or looking for something special for a family dinner, this recipe will undoubtedly bring smiles around the table.

Top Reasons to Try This Dish

So, why should you make Crack Green Beans? For starters, it’s an impressive yet uncomplicated dish that elevates everyday green beans into something truly special. The combination of crispy bacon and a sweet soy sauce glaze creates a flavor profile that’s impossible to resist.

This dish is perfect for various occasions, from weeknight dinners to festive gatherings, and it works well as a crowd-pleaser. Even better, it requires just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, ensuring that anyone can whip it up without a fuss.

“I was blown away! This recipe turned boring green beans into a dish our whole family devoured. The sweet and salty balance is incredible!”

Your Easy Cooking Guide

Making Crack Green Beans is straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to shine. First, you’ll blanch the green beans to keep them vibrant and tender-crisp. Then, the magic happens with crispy bacon, a luscious sauce, and some baking to bring all the flavors together. Get ready to wow your dinner guests with this simple yet delectable side dish!

What You’ll Need

To prepare this scrumptious recipe, gather the following ingredients:

• 454g fresh green beans – Look for firm, bright green beans for the best flavor.
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped – The thicker bacon adds more richness and crunch.
• 60g brown sugar – Brown sugar brings a molasses-like sweetness that balances the saltiness of the bacon and soy sauce.
• 60ml soy sauce – A staple in Asian cuisine, it adds depth and umami.
• 57g unsalted butter – Unsalted allows you to control the overall saltiness of the dish.
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic enhances the flavor profile and adds aromatic notes.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Boil the Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender.
2. Ice Bath: Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath to stop the cooking process.
3. Cook the Bacon: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
4. Make the Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter with the reserved bacon fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar and soy sauce, mixing until smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
5. Combine: Place the green beans in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the beans, add the crispy bacon, and toss to coat everything evenly.
6. Bake: Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to thicken the glaze.
7. Serve: Enjoy your warm Crack Green Beans straight from the oven!

Serving Ideas

Crack Green Beans are incredibly versatile and can complement a variety of main dishes. They make a stunning side for roasted meats like chicken or beef, or they can stand alone on a vegetarian table with hearty options like quinoa or risotto. Consider serving them alongside:

• Grilled chicken or steak
• A rich creamy pasta
• Sloppy Joes for a fun twist on dinner

A sprinkle of sesame seeds or sliced scallions can also add an extra touch when serving!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers (which is unlikely), here’s how to keep them fresh:

• Refrigerate: Store any remaining Crack Green Beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat: Warm in the microwave or briefly on the stovetop, adding a little butter if the beans seem dry.
• Freezing: If you need to freeze, do so before baking. Blanch the beans, mix with the sauce and bacon, and freeze in a suitable container. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and proceed to bake!

Expert Advice

For the best results, select freshly harvested green beans. Ensure they’re firm and have a bright color. Avoid overcooking them—they should remain slightly crisp for the perfect texture against the glossy glaze. For an added kick, incorporate red pepper flakes into the sauce for spice lovers!

Creative Twists

Feel free to get creative! Here are a couple of variations you can try:

• Add Nuts: Toss in some slivered almonds or walnuts before baking for a delightful crunch.
• Healthier Swap: Use turkey bacon or omit it entirely for a vegetarian version, adding roasted chickpeas for protein.

Your Questions Answered

1. How long does this take to make?
Total preparation and cooking time is around 40 minutes.

2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! Prepare the beans and sauce ahead, then combine and bake when ready to serve.

3. Can I substitute the bacon?
Yes! Use turkey bacon, a plant-based alternative, or even sautéed mushrooms for a vegetarian version.

Enjoy crafting this delightful recipe that turns simple green beans into a show-stopping side dish on your dinner table!

Crack Green Beans

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• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Diet: Paleo

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Description

Indulgent green beans with crispy bacon and a sweet, savory glaze that appeals to kids and adults alike.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 454g fresh green beans
• 6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
• 60g brown sugar
• 60ml soy sauce
• 57g unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced

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Instructions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender.
2. Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into an ice bath.
3. In a skillet over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, reserving 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the skillet.
4. In the same skillet, melt the butter with the reserved bacon fat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant. Stir in the brown sugar and soy sauce, mixing until smooth and the sugar has dissolved.
5. Place the green beans in a baking dish. Pour the sauce over the beans, add the crispy bacon, and toss to coat everything evenly.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake at 350°F (175°C) for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for another 10 minutes to thicken the glaze.
7. Serve warm directly from the oven.

Notes

For added flavor, sprinkle sesame seeds or sliced scallions when serving. Consider using turkey bacon for a lighter option.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 250
• Sugar: 12g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 18g
• Saturated Fat: 7g
• Unsaturated Fat: 9g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 15g
• Fiber: 4g
• Protein: 8g
• Cholesterol: 25mg

Keywords: green beans, side dish, bacon, easy recipe, holiday cooking