About This Recipe
Smothered Green Beans is a classic Southern side dish. The term “smothered” refers to a cooking method where vegetables are slowly braised or cooked down in a flavorful liquid, often with onions, bacon, or other seasonings, until they are extremely tender and infused with rich flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This recipe transforms simple green beans into a deeply flavorful and comforting dish. The slow cooking process yields a tender texture and a rich, savory taste that distinguishes it from simpler preparation methods. It is an efficient way to prepare a vegetable side dish in advance.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken broth or water
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
Step by Step Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly and trim the ends.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy.
- Remove the bacon pieces, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and cook in the bacon fat until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the trimmed green beans to the pot and stir to coat them in the fat and onion mixture.
- Pour in the chicken broth or water and add the cooked bacon pieces back into the pot.
- Season with black pepper and salt.
- Bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce the heat to low to maintain a gentle simmer.
- Cover the pot and let the green beans simmer for 1 to 1.5 hours, stirring occasionally, until the beans are very tender and the liquid has reduced significantly.
- Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
FAQ
Can I use canned or frozen green beans?
Yes, canned or frozen green beans can be used. For canned, drain and reduce the cooking liquid and time. For frozen, no need to thaw; cooking time may be slightly less.
Can this be made without pork?
Yes. Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of butter or oil to sauté the onions. A smoked turkey leg or wing can also be used as a substitute for bacon.
Why are my green beans not tender?
The beans likely need to cook longer. Ensure the pot is covered and the heat is at a low simmer, not a rapid boil, and continue cooking until desired tenderness is achieved.
You Must Know
The key to authentic smothered green beans is the long, slow cooking process. This method breaks down the fibers of the beans, making them exceptionally tender and allowing them to absorb the flavors of the cooking liquid and seasonings fully. Do not rush the simmering step.
Storage Tips
Allow cooked smothered green beans to cool completely before storage. Transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The flavors often improve after resting overnight. They can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in a microwave.