Brown Sugar and Bacon Green Beans

INGREDIENTS

• 2 pounds fresh green beans
• 2-3 thick cut bacon slices (chopped)
• 1/2 onion (sliced)
• 1-2 tsp light brown sugar 
• 2 tbsp cold butter
• 1/3 cup chicken stock

DIRECTIONS

Prepare the Green Beans

1. Trim and Wash: Start by washing and trimming your green beans. Remove the ends and any strings for a tender, crisp bite.
2. Blanch the Beans: For a brighter color and quicker cook time, blanch the green beans in boiling water for about 2-3 minutes, then transfer them to an ice bath to stop the cooking process. Drain and set aside.

Cook the Bacon

1. Fry the Bacon: In a large skillet over medium heat, cook your chopped thick cut bacon until it’s crispy and golden brown, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Drain and Reserve: Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate, keeping the bacon drippings in the skillet for extra flavor.

Sauté the Onions

1. Caramelize the Onions: Add the thinly sliced onion to the skillet with the bacon drippings. Sauté over medium heat until the onions become soft and caramelized, approximately 5 minutes.

Cook the Green Beans

1. Combine Ingredients: Add the green beans to the skillet with the onions. Toss to coat the beans in the bacon drippings.
2. Simmer with Chicken Stock: Pour in the chicken stock, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Cover and cook for 10-15 minutes until the beans are tender but still slightly crisp.

Add the Sweet and Savory Touch

1. Sweeten: Sprinkle 1-2 teaspoons of light brown sugar over the green beans. Stir to ensure the sugar dissolves and coats the beans evenly.
2. Butter it Up: Add 2 tablespoons of cold butter, stirring until it melts and incorporates into the sauce, creating a rich, glossy finish.

Finish and Serve

1. Mix in the Bacon: Return the crispy bacon pieces to the skillet, mixing them with the green beans.
2. Serve Hot: Give everything a final toss to distribute the flavors evenly. Serve your Brown Sugar and Bacon Green Beans hot and enjoy!