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

Scale

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