Are you a fan of KFC's delicious green beans? That signature crispy, savory coating is irresistible! But who wants to run out for fast food when you can easily recreate this addictive side dish at home? This recipe delivers the same incredible flavor and satisfying crunch, all while being surprisingly quick and easy. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinners with this homemade KFC green bean recipe. It's the perfect addition to any meal, from fried chicken (naturally!) to grilled meats or even a simple sandwich.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
- 1/4 cup cornstarch
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- 1 cup buttermilk
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
Wash and trim the ends of your green beans. Pat them dry completely with paper towels; this is crucial for achieving that perfectly crispy coating.
Step 2: Make the Coating
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, cornstarch, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, salt, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using). Make sure all the spices are well combined.
Step 3: The Buttermilk Soak
Pour the buttermilk into a separate bowl. Add the dried green beans and toss to ensure they're evenly coated. Let them soak for at least 15 minutes, or even longer for a crispier result. This step helps the breading adhere better.
Step 4: Bread the Green Beans
One by one, remove the green beans from the buttermilk, allowing excess to drip off. Then, dredge each bean in the flour mixture, pressing gently to coat thoroughly. Shake off any excess flour.
Step 5: Fry to Perfection
Heat about 1 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or deep fryer to 350°F (175°C). Carefully add the breaded green beans to the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the pan. Fry in batches for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Step 6: Drain and Serve
Remove the green beans from the oil using a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Tips for Crispy Green Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy beans. Fry in batches for best results.
- Dry thoroughly: Make sure your green beans are completely dry before breading. Excess moisture will prevent the breading from crisping up properly.
- Don't skip the buttermilk: The buttermilk helps the breading adhere and adds a subtle tanginess.
- Adjust seasoning: Feel free to adjust the spices to your liking. Add more cayenne for extra heat or experiment with other herbs and spices like oregano or rosemary.
Variations:
- Spicy Green Beans: Increase the cayenne pepper or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for extra heat.
- Garlic Parmesan Green Beans: Add 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese to the flour mixture.
- Herb Green Beans: Add 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh herbs like parsley, chives, or dill to the flour mixture.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This will vary depending on serving size and the amount of oil absorbed. However, a general estimate for a serving of approximately 1 cup of fried green beans is around 200-250 calories, with varying amounts of fat, protein, and carbohydrates. For a more precise nutritional breakdown, use a nutrition calculator and input your specific ingredients and quantities. Remember, this is a treat, so moderation is key for a healthy diet.
This easy KFC green bean recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The crispy coating and savory flavor make them the perfect addition to any meal. So ditch the takeout and enjoy this delicious, homemade side dish!