Candied Green Beans
Sweet and savory candied green beans combine crispy bacon, mushrooms, and brown sugar for a hearty side dish perfect for family dinners or holiday gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Fry the bacon until crispy, then drain all fat off.
- Remove all liquid from the green beans, then combine beans, margarine, mushrooms, and brown sugar in the skillet with bacon.
- Cook on low heat for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally until flavors meld.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce while cooking. If you're short on time, you can use frozen green beans instead of canned; just adjust the cooking time. For a vegetarian version, omit the bacon and use olive oil for sautéing. You can also substitute the brown sugar with maple syrup for a unique twist.
Serving Suggestions
Candied green beans make a delightful side dish for holiday meals or family gatherings. They pair beautifully with Pork recipes like glazed ham or roasted chicken. Consider serving them alongside Hometown Baked Beans for a hearty spread. For a colorful plate, add a fresh salad, such as Dole Pineapple Spinach Salad, to balance the flavors.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm them in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. For a quicker option, you can microwave them in a covered dish for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Candied Green Beans contains roughly 1049 calories, with 6g protein, 64g carbohydrates, and 88g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (65% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and dietary fiber. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 909mg per serving (40% of the Daily Value).
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh green beans instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh green beans! Just blanch them in boiling water for a few minutes until tender-crisp before adding them to the skillet. This will enhance the texture and flavor of the dish.
Is there a way to make this dish healthier?
To make this dish healthier, consider reducing the amount of bacon or using turkey bacon as a substitute. You can also cut back on the brown sugar or use a sugar substitute to lower the overall sugar content while still maintaining sweetness.
What can I serve with candied green beans?
Candied green beans complement a variety of main dishes. They work well with roasted meats, especially glazed ham or turkey. For a complete meal, serve them alongside starches like mashed potatoes or rice, and consider a refreshing salad like Dole Pineapple Spinach Salad for added nutrition.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).