Name: Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 4 cups heirloom green beans; 1 slice Bacon; 1 clove garlic; 1 tsp olive oil; ½ tsp sea salt; 1 pinch coarsely ground black pepper

This simple yet flavorful recipe for Kentucky Wonder beans is perfect for a quick and satisfying side dish. The combination of tender heirloom green beans with smoky bacon and fragrant garlic creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will complement any meal.

Photos of Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe

When gathering ingredients for this recipe, you might need to pay special attention to heirloom green beans. These are not your typical supermarket green beans and might require a visit to a farmers' market or a specialty grocery store. They offer a unique flavor and texture that make this dish stand out.

Ingredients for Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe

heirloom green beans: These special green beans offer a unique flavor and texture, often found at farmers' markets or specialty stores.

bacon: A slice of smoky bacon adds depth and richness to the beans.

garlic: A clove of garlic infuses the dish with a fragrant, savory aroma.

olive oil: Used to sauté the garlic and enhance the overall flavor.

sea salt: A pinch of sea salt brings out the natural flavors of the ingredients.

black pepper: Coarsely ground black pepper adds a hint of spice and complexity.

One reader, Eba Mcinnis says:

This Kentucky Wonder Beans recipe is fantastic! The beans are tender and flavorful, with a perfect hint of garlic and bacon. It's a simple yet delicious side dish that complements any meal. Highly recommend!

Eba Mcinnis

Mastering the Art of Kentucky Wonder Beans

How to trim green beans: Remove the ends of the green beans and any strings by snapping or cutting them off. How to cook bacon: Cook the bacon slice until it is crispy, then chop it into small pieces. How to mince garlic: Peel the garlic clove and finely chop it into small pieces. How to boil water: Bring water to a rolling boil over high heat before reducing the temperature. How to season: Add sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper to taste.

How To Make Kentucky Wonder Beans

Tender and flavorful, Kentucky wonder beans are boiled in the pan with bacon and garlic for a simple dish that’s made in just 20 minutes.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 10 minutes

Total: 20 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4cupsheirloom green beans,such as Kentucky Wonder Beans, trimmed
1slicebacon
1clovegarlic,minced
1tspolive oil,or as needed
½tspsea salt
1pinchcoarsely ground black pepper,to taste

Instructions

Pour about 1-inch of water into a saucepan; add green beans, bacon, garlic, olive oil, sea salt, and pepper.
Bring the water to a boil, reduce heat to medium, and place a cover on the saucepan. Cook beans for 7 to 10 minutes until tender.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 72.39kcal
Fat: 4.23g
Saturated Fat: 1.17g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 2.10g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.70g
Carbohydrates: 7.33g
Fiber: 2.72g
Sugar: 3.34g
Protein: 2.80g
Cholesterol: 4.78mg
Sodium: 253.85mg
Calcium: 39.01mg
Potassium: 228.89mg
Iron: 1.08mg
Vitamin A: 35.81µg
Vitamin C: 12.43mg

Elevate Your Technique: Pro Tips for Perfect Beans

When cooking green beans, make sure to trim the ends and remove any strings for a more pleasant texture. Adding bacon not only enhances the flavor but also infuses the beans with a smoky richness. To prevent overcooking, keep a close eye on the beans during the last few minutes of cooking.

Time-Saving Tricks for Busy Cooks

Pre-trim the beans: Trim and wash the green beans in advance to save time during cooking.

Use pre-minced garlic: Opt for pre-minced garlic to cut down on prep time.

Batch cook bacon: Cook multiple slices of bacon at once and store them for future recipes.

Boil water first: Start with boiling water to reduce the overall cooking time for the green beans.

One-pot method: Combine all ingredients in one pot to minimize cleanup and streamline the cooking process.

Substitute Ingredients For Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe

heirloom green beans - Substitute with snap peas: Snap peas provide a similar crunch and fresh flavor, making them a good alternative.
heirloom green beans - Substitute with asparagus: Asparagus offers a different texture but a comparable earthy taste.
bacon - Substitute with turkey bacon: Turkey bacon is a leaner option that still provides a smoky flavor.
bacon - Substitute with smoked paprika: Smoked paprika can mimic the smoky flavor of bacon without the meat.
garlic - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a milder, slightly sweet flavor that can replace garlic.
garlic - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used when fresh garlic is not available, providing a similar taste.
olive oil - Substitute with avocado oil: Avocado oil has a similar healthy fat profile and a neutral flavor.
olive oil - Substitute with grapeseed oil: Grapeseed oil is another neutral oil that can be used in place of olive oil.
sea salt - Substitute with kosher salt: Kosher salt has a similar texture and can be used in the same quantity.
sea salt - Substitute with table salt: Table salt can be used, but use slightly less as it is finer and more concentrated.
coarsely ground black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper provides a similar heat but with a slightly different flavor profile.
coarsely ground black pepper - Substitute with red pepper flakes: Red pepper flakes add a different kind of heat and a bit of color to the dish.

Elevate Your Plate: Presentation Ideas

Blanch the green beans: Quickly blanch the heirloom green beans in boiling water for 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to preserve their vibrant color and crisp texture.
Crisp the bacon: Cook the bacon slice in a skillet over medium heat until it is crispy. Remove and drain on paper towels, then crumble into small pieces.
Infuse the olive oil: In a small pan, gently heat the olive oil with the garlic clove until the garlic is golden and fragrant. Remove the garlic and set the infused oil aside.
Season the green beans: Toss the blanched green beans with the infused olive oil, sea salt, and a pinch of coarsely ground black pepper.
Plate with precision: Arrange the green beans in a neat bundle on a pristine white plate, ensuring they are evenly spaced and visually appealing.
Garnish with bacon: Sprinkle the crumbled bacon over the green beans, adding a touch of texture and a burst of savory flavor.
Add a touch of elegance: Finish with a light drizzle of the remaining infused olive oil and a few microgreens for a sophisticated touch.
Serve immediately: Present the dish promptly to ensure the green beans remain tender-crisp and the flavors are at their peak.

Essential Kitchen Tools You'll Need

Saucepan: A deep cooking pan with a handle, used for boiling or simmering ingredients.
Measuring cups: Tools used to measure the volume of liquid or bulk solid cooking ingredients.
Measuring spoons: Small spoons used to measure small quantities of ingredients like salt and pepper.
Knife: A sharp tool used for chopping or mincing the garlic.
Cutting board: A durable board on which to place material for cutting.
Tongs: A tool used to handle the green beans and bacon without using your hands.
Stove: The appliance used to heat the saucepan and cook the ingredients.
Lid: A cover for the saucepan to help steam and cook the beans evenly.
Serving dish: A dish used to present the cooked green beans for serving.

Preserving Freshness: Storage and Freezing Guidelines

Let the kentucky wonder beans cool completely before storing or freezing.
For short-term storage, place the cooked beans in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 5 days.
To freeze the beans for longer storage:
- Transfer the cooled beans to a freezer-safe container or resealable plastic bag.
- Remove as much air as possible from the container or bag to prevent freezer burn.
- Label the container or bag with the date and contents for easy identification.
- Place the container or bag in the freezer, where the beans will keep for up to 6 months.
To reheat frozen kentucky wonder beans:
- Remove the desired amount of beans from the freezer and thaw in the refrigerator overnight.
- Alternatively, you can reheat the frozen beans directly in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
- If the beans seem dry after reheating, add a small amount of water or olive oil to restore moisture.
Avoid refreezing previously frozen beans, as this can negatively impact their texture and quality.

Reviving Leftovers: Reheating Tips

Stovetop method: place the leftover kentucky wonder beans in a saucepan over medium-low heat. add a splash of water or chicken broth to prevent the beans from drying out. stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. season with additional salt and pepper if needed.
Microwave method: transfer the leftover kentucky wonder beans to a microwave-safe dish. cover the dish with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the beans are heated through. be careful not to overheat, as this can cause the beans to become mushy.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). place the leftover kentucky wonder beans in an oven-safe dish and cover with aluminum foil. bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the beans are heated through. remove the foil for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating to allow any excess moisture to evaporate and the bacon to crisp up slightly.
Skillet method: heat a small amount of olive oil or butter in a skillet over medium heat. add the leftover kentucky wonder beans and stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes. this method allows you to add extra flavor to the beans by sautéing them with additional garlic, onion, or herbs.
Slow cooker method: if you have a large amount of leftover kentucky wonder beans, you can reheat them in a slow cooker. transfer the beans to the slow cooker, add a small amount of water or chicken broth, and cook on low for 1-2 hours, or until heated through. this method is ideal for keeping the beans warm for an extended period, such as during a party or potluck.

Fascinating Trivia About Kentucky Wonder Beans

A random fact about this recipe is that Kentucky Wonder beans are an heirloom variety known for their exceptional flavor and tenderness, making them a popular choice for traditional Southern dishes.

Budget-Friendly Cooking: Is This Recipe Economical?

This Kentucky Wonder Beans recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredients, heirloom green beans, bacon, and garlic, are relatively inexpensive and easily accessible. The use of minimal olive oil and simple seasonings like sea salt and black pepper further keeps costs low. For a household of 4 people, the approximate cost would be around $5-$7 USD. Overall Verdict: 8/10.

Are Kentucky Wonder Beans Healthy?

The Kentucky Wonder Beans recipe is a relatively healthy dish, thanks to the nutrient-rich green beans that serve as the main ingredient. Green beans are low in calories and packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, making them an excellent choice for a balanced diet. The addition of garlic provides some potential health benefits, such as boosting the immune system and reducing inflammation.

However, the inclusion of bacon in the recipe raises some concerns. While a single slice of bacon may not significantly impact the overall nutritional value, it does add saturated fat and sodium to the dish. Additionally, the olive oil and salt contribute to the total fat and sodium content, respectively.

To make this recipe even healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Omit the bacon altogether or replace it with a healthier alternative, such as turkey bacon or a vegetarian bacon substitute
Reduce the amount of olive oil used or substitute it with a lower-fat cooking spray
Decrease the amount of added salt, especially if using bacon, which is already high in sodium
Incorporate additional vegetables, such as diced onions, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers, to increase the nutrient density and fiber content of the dish
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like thyme, rosemary, or red pepper flakes, to add flavor without relying on salt

By making these adjustments, you can transform the Kentucky Wonder Beans recipe into an even healthier and more nutritious side dish that complements a variety of main courses.

Editor's Take: A Flavorful Southern Classic

This recipe for Kentucky Wonder Beans is simple yet flavorful. The combination of heirloom green beans with bacon and garlic creates a delightful balance of savory and aromatic notes. The olive oil adds a touch of richness, while the sea salt and coarsely ground black pepper enhance the natural flavors of the beans. Cooking the beans until tender ensures a satisfying texture. Overall, it's a straightforward and delicious way to enjoy fresh green beans.

Enhance Your Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Imagine the sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes mingling with the savory notes of your Kentucky Wonder Beans. The caramelized edges and tender insides create a delightful contrast that will make your taste buds dance.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Picture a creamy, buttery garlic mashed potatoes dish that complements the green beans perfectly. The garlic in both dishes will harmonize, creating a symphony of flavors that’s both comforting and indulgent.

Cranberry Walnut Salad: Envision a cranberry walnut salad with crisp greens, tart cranberries, and crunchy walnuts. The freshness and slight acidity will balance the richness of the bacon and olive oil in the beans, making each bite a refreshing experience.

Butternut Squash Soup: Think of a velvety butternut squash soup that adds a touch of sweetness and warmth to your meal. The creamy texture and subtle spices will provide a comforting backdrop to the Kentucky Wonder Beans, making it a perfect pairing for a cozy dinner.

Apple Crisp: For a sweet finish, imagine an apple crisp with a golden, crunchy topping and tender, spiced apples. The dessert will round off your meal with a delightful contrast to the savory beans, leaving you with a satisfying and memorable dining experience.

Discover Similar Recipes for Variety

Southern Style Collard Greens: Dive into the rich flavors of southern cuisine with this hearty dish. Slow-cooked collard greens meld beautifully with smoky ham hocks, creating a savory side that's perfect for any comfort food lover.

Garlic Butter Green Beans: Elevate your green beans with a luscious garlic butter sauce. This simple yet delicious recipe brings out the natural sweetness of the beans, making it an ideal accompaniment to any main course.

Bacon Wrapped Asparagus: Indulge in the perfect blend of crispy bacon and tender asparagus. This elegant appetizer or side dish is sure to impress your guests with its delightful combination of flavors and textures.

Roasted Brussels Sprouts With Balsamic Glaze: Transform brussels sprouts into a gourmet delight with a tangy balsamic glaze. Roasting brings out their natural sweetness, while the glaze adds a touch of sophistication to this classic vegetable dish.

Honey Glazed Carrots: Sweet and savory honey glazed carrots are a delightful addition to any meal. The honey caramelizes beautifully, creating a glossy finish that enhances the natural flavor of the carrots.

Why trust this Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe:

This recipe for Kentucky Wonder Beans is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. Using fresh heirloom green beans ensures a crisp texture and vibrant taste. The addition of bacon and garlic infuses a savory depth, while olive oil enhances the beans' natural flavors. Seasoned with sea salt and black pepper, this dish is both wholesome and delicious. Trust in the quality of these ingredients and the straightforward cooking method to deliver a satisfying side dish.

Have you tried this Kentucky Wonder Beans Recipe? Share your experience and discuss variations in the Recipe Sharing forum.

FAQ:

How do I prepare the green beans for this recipe?

I usually rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends. If the beans are particularly long, I might snap them in half.

Can I use frozen green beans instead of fresh ones?

Yes, you can use frozen green beans. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly since frozen beans might cook faster.

What can I use if I don't have bacon?

If you don't have bacon, you can use a small amount of ham or pancetta for a similar flavor. For a vegetarian option, you can skip the meat altogether and maybe add a bit more olive oil for richness.

How do I know when the beans are done?

The beans are done when they are tender but still have a slight crunch. I usually taste one around the 7-minute mark to check.

Can I add other spices or herbs to this recipe?

Absolutely! Sometimes I like to add a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat or a squeeze of lemon juice for a bit of brightness. Feel free to experiment with your favorite spices and herbs.