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Crack Green Beans

Crack Green Beans

  • Author: Marcus
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Crack Green Beans are a vibrant and flavorful side dish combining fresh green beans with smoky plant-based turkey bacon, aromatic spices, and creamy plant-based cheese. This quick and easy recipe blends textures and bold flavors to complement any meal, making it a must-try for those who enjoy savory, smoky, and creamy vegetable dishes.

Ingredients

Scale

Vegetables

  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped into bite-sized pieces

Proteins

  • 4 ounces smoked turkey bacon, chopped

Spices and Aromatics

  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoky paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Liquids and Sauces

  • 1 tablespoon vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural)
  • 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (natural), plus additional splash for serving if desired
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil

Dairy Alternatives and Texture

  • 1/2 cup shredded plant-based cheese
  • 1/4 teaspoon natural gelling agent (optional)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Green Beans: Wash the green beans thoroughly, trim the ends, and snap into bite-sized pieces. Blanch the beans in boiling salted water for about 3 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then immediately plunge into ice water to stop cooking and retain crispness.
  2. Cook the Smoked Turkey Bacon: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped smoked turkey bacon and cook for about 5 minutes until crisp and fragrant. Remove bacon bits and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the skillet.
  3. Sauté Aromatics and Spices: Add minced garlic to the skillet with turkey bacon fat and sauté gently for 1 minute until fragrant. Sprinkle in smoky paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir and toast the spices slightly to enhance their flavor.
  4. Combine Green Beans and Aromatics: Drain the blanched green beans thoroughly and add them to the skillet. Toss gently to coat the beans with the garlic and spice mixture. Pour in vegetarian Worcestershire sauce (natural) and apple cider vinegar (natural). Stir and cook for 3 to 4 minutes, allowing flavors to meld.
  5. Add Creamy Plant-Based Cheese: Sprinkle the shredded plant-based cheese over the beans and stir until melted and forming a luscious coating. If using, add the natural gelling agent and stir to incorporate smoothly for enhanced texture.
  6. Finish with Crispy Bacon: Return the crispy turkey bacon bits to the skillet and mix well with the creamy green beans. Adjust seasoning with extra salt or pepper if needed. Serve immediately while hot.

Notes

  • Use fresh green beans for the best crunch and color.
  • Blanch green beans to seal in color and texture.
  • Cook bacon until crisp to add texture and concentrate smoky flavor.
  • Use fresh spices for optimal flavor intensity.
  • Melt the cheese on low heat to preserve creaminess.
  • Adjust apple cider vinegar for a balanced tangy note.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Sautéing
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 recipe
  • Calories: 180
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 450mg
  • Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 3g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 10g
  • Fiber: 4g
  • Protein: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg

Keywords: crack green beans, smoky green beans, plant-based cheese, turkey bacon side dish, easy vegetable side

Find it online: https://tastysoulkitchen.com/crack-green-beans/