Are you tired of the same old Thanksgiving sides? This year, elevate your green bean casserole with a surprising and delightful twist! This recipe takes the classic comfort food and adds a savory umami punch with soy sauce, creating a dish that’s both familiar and exciting. It's a perfect example of healthy meals that are surprisingly easy to make, ideal for busy weeknights or special occasions. Get ready to impress your family and friends with this simple yet delicious homemade cooking creation. This recipe is perfect for those looking for quick dinner ideas that are far from boring!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10.75 ounce) can condensed cream of mushroom soup
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup milk (or chicken broth for a richer flavor)
- 1 cup crispy fried onions (or homemade – see variations below!)
Instructions:
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Prep the Green Beans: Steam or blanch the green beans until tender-crisp, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t overcook; you want them to retain some bite. Immediately rinse with cold water to stop the cooking process and drain well.
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Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Combine Ingredients: Add the cream of mushroom soup, soy sauce, Worcestershire sauce, black pepper, and milk (or broth) to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
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Add Green Beans: Gently stir in the cooked green beans, ensuring they're evenly coated in the sauce. Simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
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Top and Bake (Optional): For an extra crispy topping, transfer the casserole to a baking dish and top with the crispy fried onions. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through and the onions are golden brown. If you skip baking, it's still delicious!
Tips and Variations:
- Homemade Crispy Onions: For a truly homemade touch, thinly slice an onion and fry it in batches in hot oil until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
- Mushroom Boost: Sauté some sliced mushrooms with the onions for an even more intense mushroom flavor.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free version. Ensure your Worcestershire sauce is also gluten-free.
- Vegetarian/Vegan Adaptation: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version. For vegan, use a vegan cream of mushroom soup and ensure all other ingredients are plant-based.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This nutritional information is an estimate and will vary based on specific ingredients used.
Calories: Approximately 250-300 Fat: 15-20g Protein: 5-7g Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This green bean casserole with soy sauce offers a unique and flavorful twist on a classic dish. Its ease of preparation and delicious taste make it a perfect addition to your next meal, whether it's a weeknight dinner or a special occasion. Enjoy!