Serves 6
30 min
Bacon and Candied Walnut Green Beans
Recipe GLPR4577a06979b663
Tender green beans coated in bacon grease and topped with crispy bacon pieces and sweet candied walnuts. This elegant side dish combines salty, smoky, and sweet flavors in one sophisticated bite.
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Ingredients
1/2 lb bacon, cut into 1/2-inch pieces
2 cups raw walnuts
1/3 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt (for candying walnuts)
2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed
1/2 cup water
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Directions
In a large skillet over medium heat, combine the walnuts, brown sugar, and the 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Stir continuously with a wooden spoon for approximately 10 minutes, until the sugar melts and evenly coats all the walnut pieces. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
Transfer the candied walnuts to a plate lined with parchment paper and allow them to cool completely. Once cooled, they will crisp up.
In the same skillet, cook the bacon pieces over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until they reach a crispy texture, about 5-7 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Reserve the bacon grease in the skillet.
Add the trimmed green beans and water to the bacon grease in the skillet. Stir well to coat the beans evenly. Cover the skillet with a lid and reduce heat to medium-low. Simmer for 10-15 minutes until the beans are tender but still have a slight firmness when pierced with a fork.
Drain any remaining liquid from the skillet using a colander or by tilting the lid slightly.
Transfer the cooked green beans to a serving dish. Top with the crispy bacon pieces and candied walnuts. Season with additional salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve warm.
