Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral feature tender green beans slow-cooked with smoky bacon, savory onions, and a hint of garlic, delivering a flavorful and comforting side dish with a rich, hearty appearance.
Equipments
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
- Cutting board
- Chef’s knife
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups
- Measuring spoons
- Colander
Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) fresh green beans
- 6 slices bacon
- 1 medium onion
- 2 cloves garlic
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Using fresh green beans is crucial for achieving the tender texture characteristic of Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral, while smoky bacon adds depth and richness to the dish. When selecting ingredients, opt for high-quality chicken broth to enhance the savory flavor without overwhelming the natural taste of the vegetables. Fresh garlic and onions should be finely chopped to release their full aroma during slow cooking, ensuring a balanced and comforting flavor profile. Pay attention to seasoning with salt and black pepper to complement the smoky bacon and broth, creating the authentic Southern-style taste you desire. Your well-prepared ingredients will make the Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral copycat menu truly stand out with its rich, hearty appearance and savory flavor.
Instructions
- Wash and trim the ends off the green beans.
- Chop bacon into bite-sized pieces.
- Dice the onion.
- Mince the garlic.
- In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook bacon over medium heat until crispy.
- Remove bacon with a slotted spoon; set aside, leaving bacon drippings in the pot.
- Add diced onion to the pot; sauté until translucent.
- Add minced garlic; cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
- Add green beans to the pot; stir to coat with bacon drippings, onions, and garlic.
- Pour in chicken broth.
- Season with salt and black pepper.
- Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer.
- Cover and cook for 45–60 minutes, stirring occasionally, until green beans are tender.
- Return cooked bacon to the pot and stir.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Use a slotted spoon to serve.
Substitution
Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral copycat menu can be easily adapted if fresh green beans are unavailable by using frozen or canned beans, though fresh green beans provide the best texture and flavor. If chicken broth is not on hand, vegetable broth or water with a chicken bouillon cube can be substituted without compromising the dish's savory taste. In the absence of bacon, smoked turkey or a dash of liquid smoke can replicate the smoky flavor profile crucial to the dish. Your use of a Dutch oven ensures even cooking and infusion of flavors, but a heavy saucepan can work as an alternative. Make sure to adjust cooking times slightly if you swap fresh ingredients for canned or frozen ones to avoid overcooking.
Tips
Ensure to rinse and trim your green beans thoroughly to remove any dirt or tough stems for a better texture. When cooking bacon, crisp it perfectly by using medium heat, which helps render fat and infuses the dish with smoky flavor. Simmer the beans slowly in chicken broth for up to an hour to achieve the tender Southern-style softness without overcooking. Before serving, you can taste and adjust salt and pepper, balancing the savory flavors to suit your preference.
Nutritions
Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral provide a nutritious side dish rich in dietary fiber and essential vitamins, primarily vitamin C and vitamin K from the green beans. The bacon adds protein and sodium, contributing to a hearty flavor, while the chicken broth enriches the dish with minerals like potassium and calcium. Garlic and onions add antioxidants and compounds that support immune health. When you prepare this dish, the slow-cooking method helps retain the nutrients while blending savory flavors for a satisfying addition to your meal.
Storage
Store Southern Style Green Beans in an airtight container and refrigerate promptly after cooking to maintain freshness and flavor. For best quality, consume within 3 to 4 days, reheating gently on the stovetop or microwave to preserve texture. If you plan to store longer, freeze the beans in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months, ensuring you leave space for expansion.
Variation or Alternatives
You can substitute smoked turkey or ham hocks for bacon to create a lighter yet still smoky flavor. Swap chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version while keeping the depth of taste. Roasting the green beans and garlic before cooking adds a caramelized note, enhancing the dish's savory profile. To expedite cooking, blanch the green beans briefly before simmering, helping them maintain their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Allergies
Southern Style Green Beans from Golden Corral contain bacon and chicken broth, both of which may trigger allergies in individuals sensitive to pork products or chicken-derived ingredients. The dish also includes onions and garlic, which can cause adverse reactions for those with allium allergies. You should carefully consider these ingredients if you have food sensitivities or intolerances before consuming this side dish.
Why this recipe?
Golden Corral's Southern Style Green Beans are beloved for their rich, smoky flavor and tender texture, achieved through slow cooking with ham hocks and savory seasonings. The authentic taste captures the essence of Southern comfort food, making it a standout side dish that complements a variety of meals. Creating a copycat version allows you to enjoy this hearty, flavorful dish at home, tailoring the recipe to your preferences while saving on dining costs. Your kitchen can bring the warmth and tradition of Golden Corral's acclaimed green beans to your table anytime.