Candied Green Beans with Bacon: A Soul Food Delight
This recipe elevates the humble green bean into a star of the side dish world. Sweet, savory, and undeniably delicious, candied green beans with bacon are a soul food staple that's sure to be a crowd-pleaser at your next gathering. We'll focus on techniques to ensure perfectly tender-crisp beans and a smoky, rich bacon flavor that will leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed. (Look for vibrant green beans, firm to the touch, and free from blemishes.) Using fresh beans makes a huge difference in flavor and texture.
- 4 slices bacon, diced. (Thick-cut bacon adds extra richness. You can also substitute pancetta for a slightly different flavor profile.)
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed. (Light or dark brown sugar both work well; dark brown sugar offers a deeper molasses flavor.)
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar. (This adds brightness and cuts through the sweetness.)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard. (A touch of tang balances the sweetness of the brown sugar.)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder. (Enhances the savory notes.)
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper. (Freshly ground black pepper is always preferred.)
- Salt to taste. (Adjust to your preference.)
Instructions for Candied Green Bean Perfection:
Step 1: Prepare the Bacon
- In a large skillet (cast iron is ideal!), cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon grease in the pan. Set the crispy bacon aside; we'll add it back later.
Step 2: Cook the Green Beans
- Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to soften.
Step 3: Create the Candied Glaze
- In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, black pepper, and salt.
Step 4: Combine and Finish
- Pour the glaze over the green beans and cook for another 5-7 minutes, or until the beans are tender-crisp and the glaze has thickened and caramelized. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even coating.
Step 5: The Final Touch
- Stir in the crispy bacon. This adds a delightful crunch and extra bacon flavor.
Tips for Extra Delicious Candied Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking in batches ensures the green beans cook evenly and don't steam.
- Adjust the sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar.
- Add some spice: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a pleasant kick.
- Get creative with add-ins: Consider adding other ingredients like shallots, pecans, or a splash of maple syrup.
Serving Suggestions:
These candied green beans are a fantastic side dish for almost any main course, but they pair exceptionally well with:
- Roasted meats: Think pork loin, chicken, or beef.
- BBQ ribs: The sweetness complements the smoky flavor of the ribs perfectly.
- Fried chicken: A classic soul food combination.
This recipe provides a delicious and satisfying side dish that's both simple to make and impressive to serve. Enjoy! Remember to share your culinary creations using the hashtag #CandiedGreenBeans. We'd love to see your results!
