How to Make Canned Green Beans Taste Better Recipe
Introduction
Canned green beans can sometimes lack the fresh flavor and texture of their fresh counterparts. This simple method transforms them into a delicious side dish by enhancing their natural taste with beef bouillon, turning an everyday pantry staple into something special.
Ingredients
- 2 14.5 ounce cans green beans (canned in water)
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon base (such as Better than Bouillon Beef base)
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, pour in both cans of green beans along with their water. Add the beef bouillon base and stir to combine.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-high and let it cook until the water reduces by about three-quarters. Then, turn off the heat and either leave the beans on the stovetop or refrigerate for one to two hours, or even overnight.
- Step 3: When ready to serve, bring the beans back to a simmer over the stove and cook until the remaining water evaporates. Serve warm for best flavor.
Tips & Variations
- For a vegetarian option, try using vegetable bouillon instead of beef bouillon base.
- Add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes when reheating for a subtle kick.
- Stir in a small pat of butter or a splash of olive oil at the end for a richer finish.
Storage
Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to prevent overcooking and maintain texture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use fresh or frozen green beans with this method?
This method is designed for canned green beans to improve their flavor and texture. Fresh or frozen beans cook differently and usually don’t require this process.
What if I don’t have beef bouillon base?
You can substitute with vegetable bouillon or chicken bouillon, though the flavor will vary slightly. Another option is to use a small amount of soy sauce or Worcestershire sauce for added depth.
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How to Make Canned Green Beans Taste Better Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour 20 minutes (including resting time)
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Enhance the flavor of canned green beans with a simple and easy method using beef bouillon. This recipe cooks green beans directly in their liquid with added beef bouillon to infuse savory richness, then reduces the cooking liquid for a concentrated taste. Perfect for a quick side dish with a depth of flavor reminiscent of homemade beans.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 2 (14.5 ounce) cans green beans (canned in water)
- 1 teaspoon beef bouillon base (e.g., Better than Bouillon Beef base)
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium saucepan, pour in both cans of green beans along with their liquid. Add 1 teaspoon of beef bouillon base to the pan and stir gently to combine.
- Boil and Reduce Liquid: Place the pan over high heat and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to medium-high and simmer until the liquid reduces by about three-quarters, intensifying the flavor. This should take several minutes. Then turn off the heat.
- Rest to Marinate: Set the saucepan aside on the stovetop or transfer to the refrigerator for at least one to two hours or up to overnight. This resting period allows the green beans to absorb the rich beefy flavor deeply.
- Reheat Before Serving: When ready to eat, reheat the green beans by bringing them back to a simmer on the stovetop. Continue cooking gently until any remaining liquid evaporates and the beans are warm. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Using beef bouillon infuses canned green beans with a deep, savory flavor, making them taste more like homemade.
- Allowing the beans to rest after cooking helps them absorb the bouillon for richer taste.
- You can store the beans covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- For a vegetarian version, substitute beef bouillon with vegetable bouillon.
- Do not overcook the beans once reheated to maintain firmness and texture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: canned green beans, beef bouillon, green bean recipe, quick side dish, easy canned vegetable
