Creole Green Beans I

Creole Green Beans I Recipe - Vegetarian Food from USA

Region / culture: USA | Preparation time: 10 minutes | Cooking time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 |

Vegetarian diet

Introduction

Creole Green Beans is a delicious and flavorful side dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of green beans, tomatoes, and Creole seasonings creates a dish that is both comforting and satisfying.

History

Creole Green Beans is a traditional dish that originated in the southern United States. It is a popular side dish in Creole and Cajun cuisine, known for its bold flavors and spicy kick.

Ingredients

1 tbsp vegetable oil
0.25 cup chopped onions
0.25 cup thinly sliced celery
1 tbsp flour
1 cup tomato juice
0.25 tsp salt (optional)
2 cans green beans (16 oz (454 g) cans)

How to prepare

Place oil in a saucepan and heat it over moderate heat.
Add onions and celery and cook and stir them until the onions are soft but not browned.
Add flour and cook until the flour is absorbed by the vegetables.
Add tomato juice, salt, and pepper and cook until the mixture is slightly thickened and smooth.
Drain the beans well.
Add the beans to the hot sauce and simmer for 2 minutes.
Serve hot, using 0.5 cup per serving.

Variations

Add cooked bacon or ham for a smoky flavor.
Stir in some diced bell peppers or jalapenos for added heat.
Top with breadcrumbs and bake for a crispy topping.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Make sure to drain the green beans well before adding them to the sauce to prevent the dish from becoming too watery.

- Adjust the seasonings to suit your taste preferences. You can add more Creole seasoning for a spicier dish or omit it altogether for a milder flavor.

- Serve the Creole Green Beans hot for the best taste and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Creole Green Beans alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal.

- Pair it with rice or cornbread for a hearty and satisfying meal.

Cooking Techniques

Simmer the green beans in the sauce to allow the flavors to meld together.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use fresh green beans instead of canned, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

- Substitute vegetable broth for the tomato juice for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the Creole Green Beans ahead of time and reheat them before serving.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish with fresh parsley or green onions for a pop of color. - Serve in a decorative serving dish for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Pair Creole Green Beans with a glass of white wine or a cold beer for a refreshing combination.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

- Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

100

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 14g

- Dietary Fiber: 4g

- Sugars: 6g

Fats

- Total Fat: 4g

- Saturated Fat: 1g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 2g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 10%

- Vitamin C: 15%

- Iron: 6%

- Calcium: 4%

Alergens

This recipe contains no common allergens such as nuts, dairy, or gluten.

Summary

This dish is low in calories and fat, making it a healthy side dish option. It is also a good source of fiber and vitamins.

Summary

Creole Green Beans is a delicious and easy-to-make side dish that is perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and simple preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the sense of wonder I felt when I first saw this recipe for Creole Green Beans. It was many years ago, when I was just a young girl living in the bustling city of New Orleans. My grandmother, a talented cook who never used a recipe book, had taken me under her wing to teach me the culinary secrets of our Creole heritage.

One day, as we were preparing a traditional Creole feast for a family gathering, my grandmother pulled out a tattered old recipe card from her drawer. She handed it to me with a smile, saying that it was a special dish that had been passed down through generations in our family.

As I studied the faded handwriting on the card, I felt a surge of excitement. The ingredients were simple – fresh green beans, onions, bell peppers, and a blend of spices that were typical of Creole cuisine. But it was the method of preparation that intrigued me the most.

The recipe called for the green beans to be sautéed in a skillet with bacon fat, then simmered in a savory broth until they were tender and infused with flavor. The addition of tomatoes and a hint of hot pepper sauce gave the dish a uniquely Creole twist that I had never tasted before.

My grandmother explained to me that this dish was a staple in Creole households, served alongside rice and a main course of fried chicken or seafood. It was a comforting and satisfying side dish that complemented any meal, and it was always a hit with our family and friends.

Over the years, I learned to make Creole Green Beans with my eyes closed, the aroma of bacon fat and spices filling my kitchen and evoking memories of my grandmother’s gentle guidance. I would often tweak the recipe, adding my own personal touches to make it uniquely mine.

As I grew older and started a family of my own, I passed down the recipe for Creole Green Beans to my children, who now prepare it with the same sense of wonder and pride that I once felt. It has become a cherished tradition in our family, a reminder of our roots and the love that we share for good food and good company.

I often think back to that moment in my grandmother’s kitchen, when I first laid eyes on the recipe for Creole Green Beans. It was a turning point in my culinary journey, a gateway to a world of flavors and traditions that have shaped my identity and enriched my life in so many ways.

And as I stand in my own kitchen now, preparing a batch of Creole Green Beans for a family gathering, I can’t help but feel grateful for the gift of that recipe – a precious heirloom that connects me to my past and inspires me to create new memories for the generations to come.