Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's both delicious and surprisingly addictive? Look no further! This Green Beans Brown Sugar Bacon recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser, perfect for weeknight dinners or holiday gatherings. Forget bland, steamed green beans – this recipe elevates them to a whole new level with the perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors. It's a simple recipe even beginner cooks will master, making it an ideal addition to your healthy meals repertoire. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion in every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, diced
- 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the diced bacon until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon, leaving the bacon grease in the skillet. Set the crispy bacon aside.
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Sauté the Green Beans: Add the trimmed green beans to the skillet with the bacon grease. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to tenderize.
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Create the Glaze: In a small bowl, whisk together the brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
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Combine and Simmer: Pour the brown sugar glaze over the green beans. Stir to coat evenly and cook for another 3-5 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the glaze has thickened slightly.
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Finish and Serve: Stir in the crispy bacon. Serve immediately as a delicious and easy side dish.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Cooking the green beans in batches ensures even cooking and prevents steaming.
- Adjust sweetness: If you prefer a less sweet dish, reduce the amount of brown sugar. Conversely, for extra sweetness, add a touch more.
- Get creative with your bacon: Try using different types of bacon, such as hickory smoked or maple flavored, for a unique taste.
- Add a touch of heat: For a spicy kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the glaze.
Variations:
- Garlic Lovers: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves along with the green beans for an extra layer of flavor.
- Herb Infusion: Enhance the flavor profile by adding a teaspoon of fresh thyme or rosemary during the cooking process.
- Nutty Delight: Sprinkle some toasted slivered almonds or pecans for added crunch and flavor.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 150-200
- Fat: 10-15g
- Protein: 5-7g
- Carbohydrates: 10-15g
- Fiber: 2-3g
This Green Beans Brown Sugar Bacon recipe is a fantastic example of how simple ingredients can transform into a delicious and satisfying meal. It's a perfect example of homemade cooking at its finest, offering a flavorful and healthy side dish that's sure to become a family favorite. The combination of sweet and savory flavors makes it a truly memorable addition to any dinner table, making it a go-to recipe for quick dinner ideas. Enjoy!