Barbecued Green Beans

Introduction

History

The concept of barbecuing vegetables takes its roots from the traditional methods of cooking over an open flame, where the goal was to infuse the food with a smoky flavor. The addition of barbecue sauce to vegetables is a relatively modern twist, combining the American love for barbecue with the desire for healthier eating options. This recipe for Barbecued Green Beans is a testament to the evolving nature of culinary traditions, marrying the old with the new in a delicious harmony.

Ingredients

How to prepare

Variations

Cooking Tips & Tricks

For the best flavor, choose fresh green beans that are bright in color and snap easily when bent. Pre-cooking the bacon until crisp ensures that it retains its texture after being baked with the beans. Sautéing the onion and garlic in the bacon drippings adds layers of flavor that are absorbed by the beans. For a deeper barbecue flavor, consider using a smoky barbecue sauce or adding a dash of liquid smoke to the mix.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Barbecued Green Beans hot from the oven as a side dish to grilled meats, such as chicken, beef, or pork. They also pair beautifully with vegetarian main courses, adding a smoky depth to the meal.

Cooking Techniques

Baking the green beans allows them to absorb the flavors of the barbecue sauce and seasonings fully. For an added touch of smokiness, finish the dish under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the top is slightly caramelized.

Ingredient Substitutions

For a healthier version, substitute the bacon with smoked turkey or eliminate it altogether. Honey or maple syrup can be used in place of some of the barbecue sauce for a natural sweetness.

Make Ahead Tips

This dish can be assembled up to a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. You may need to add an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time if baking from cold.

Presentation Ideas

Serve in a rustic baking dish for a homely feel, or transfer to a serving platter and garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a touch of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Barbecued Green Beans go well with creamy mashed potatoes, cornbread, or a simple coleslaw. For drinks, consider a light beer or a crisp white wine to complement the smoky flavors.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through. Adding a splash of water can help prevent the beans from drying out during reheating.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

A serving of Barbecued Green Beans contains approximately 120 calories. The majority of these calories come from the barbecue sauce and bacon. Adjusting the amount of sauce or choosing a lighter version can help manage the calorie content.

Carbohydrates

A serving of Barbecued Green Beans contains approximately 15 grams of carbohydrates. The majority of these carbs come from the green beans and the barbecue sauce. Opting for a low-sugar barbecue sauce can help reduce the carbohydrate content for those monitoring their intake.

Fats

This dish contains about 5 grams of fat per serving, primarily from the bacon. Using leaner cuts of bacon or substituting turkey bacon can reduce the fat content. The fats present are a mix of saturated and unsaturated fats, contributing to the dish's overall richness and mouthfeel.

Proteins

Each serving of Barbecued Green Beans offers around 3 grams of protein, coming from the bacon and green beans. While not a high-protein dish on its own, it pairs well with protein-rich main courses to create a balanced meal.

Vitamins and minerals

Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins C and K, as well as folate and manganese. This dish also provides small amounts of iron and calcium. The nutritional profile is enhanced by the inclusion of onions and garlic, which contribute additional vitamins and antioxidants.

Alergens

This recipe may contain allergens such as soy and gluten, depending on the brand of barbecue sauce used. Always check the labels if you have specific dietary restrictions. The recipe is naturally free from dairy, nuts, and eggs.

Summary

Barbecued Green Beans are a moderately low-calorie side dish that offers a good balance of carbohydrates and fats, with a modest amount of protein. It's rich in vitamins and minerals, making it a nutritious addition to any meal. However, attention should be paid to potential allergens in the barbecue sauce.

Summary

Barbecued Green Beans are a versatile and flavorful side dish that brings a smoky twist to the dinner table. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, it's a great way to add variety to your vegetable sides. Whether you're hosting a barbecue or looking for a tasty accompaniment to your meal, these beans are sure to satisfy.

How did I get this recipe?

I recall the feeling of curiosity that overcame me when I found this recipe for barbecued green beans. It was a hot summer day, and I was visiting my dear friend Elsie in her quaint little cottage by the river. As we sat on her porch sipping iced tea, she mentioned that she had a new recipe she wanted to try out for dinner that evening.

Elsie was always full of surprises when it came to cooking, so I was eager to see what she had in store. She disappeared into her kitchen and returned with a faded old recipe card in hand. It was titled "Barbecued Green Beans" and had a handwritten note at the bottom that read "From Aunt Millie's secret cookbook."

Elsie explained that Aunt Millie was a distant relative who had traveled the world collecting recipes from various places and people. This particular recipe had been passed down through generations in her family, and Elsie had been lucky enough to inherit it.

As Elsie read through the ingredients and instructions, my mouth watered at the thought of tangy barbecued green beans. I had never heard of such a dish before, but I knew I had to try it.

The recipe called for fresh green beans, bacon, onion, vinegar, brown sugar, and a few other ingredients. Elsie told me that the key to making the dish perfect was to slow cook the beans in a smoky barbecue sauce until they were tender and flavorful.

I watched as Elsie worked her magic in the kitchen, chopping the bacon and onion, sautéing them in a pan until they were golden brown. She added the green beans and let them simmer in the barbecue sauce, the sweet and savory aroma filling the room.

As we sat down to dinner that evening, I took my first bite of the barbecued green beans and was instantly transported to a place of comfort and nostalgia. The flavors were rich and complex, the beans tender and smoky. It was a dish that tasted like home.

After that evening, I knew I had to learn how to make barbecued green beans for myself. I asked Elsie for the recipe, and she graciously wrote it out for me on a fresh recipe card. I tucked it away in my own collection, knowing that it would become a staple in my kitchen for years to come.

Over the years, I have made barbecued green beans for countless family gatherings, potlucks, and dinner parties. Each time, they are met with rave reviews and requests for the recipe. I always smile and think of Elsie and Aunt Millie, grateful for the gift of such a delicious and comforting dish.

As I sit here now, flipping through my recipe box and reminiscing about that hot summer day at Elsie's cottage, I am filled with gratitude for the culinary adventures and friendships that have enriched my life. Barbecued green beans may be a simple dish, but to me, they are a reminder of the power of food to bring people together and create lasting memories. And for that, I am truly thankful.

Categories

| American Recipes | Bacon Recipes | Cathy's Recipes | Clove Recipes | Green Bean Recipes |

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