Cajun Smothered Green Beans are a spicy twist on a classic Southern side dish. Packed with flavor from Cajun seasoning, bacon, and a rich tomato-based sauce, these green beans are the perfect accompaniment to any Southern meal. Here’s how to make them.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and snapped
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 1 bell pepper, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup chicken broth (optional, for added flavor)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish, optional)
Instructions:
1. Blanch the Green Beans:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add the green beans and cook for about 3-4 minutes or until they are bright green and slightly tender.
- Drain the green beans and immediately plunge them into a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process.
- Drain again and set aside.
2. Cook the Bacon:
- In a large skillet, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy.
- Remove the bacon from the skillet and place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain.
3. Saute Onion and Bell Pepper:
- In the same skillet with the bacon drippings, add the finely chopped onion and bell pepper.
- Saute for about 3-4 minutes until they become soft and translucent.
4. Add Garlic and Cajun Seasoning:
- Stir in the minced garlic and Cajun seasoning.
- Cook for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant.
5. Combine with Tomatoes:
- Pour in the diced tomatoes, including the liquid.
- If desired, add chicken broth for added flavor and moisture.
- Stir everything together.
6. Simmer:
- Reduce the heat to low and let the tomato mixture simmer for about 10-15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken.
7. Add Green Beans:
- Gently fold the blanched green beans into the tomato mixture.
- Allow the beans to simmer in the sauce for an additional 5-7 minutes or until they are heated through and tender.
8. Season and Serve:
- Season the Cajun Smothered Green Beans with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Garnish with the crispy bacon pieces and, if desired, chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
9. Serve Hot:
- Serve the Cajun Smothered Green Beans hot as a flavorful side dish to complement your Southern meal.
Conclusion: Cajun Smothered Green Beans add a spicy and savory twist to a classic Southern side dish. With the smokiness of bacon and the bold flavors of Cajun seasoning, these green beans are sure to be a hit at your table. Whether you’re serving them with fried chicken or as part of a traditional Southern feast, they’re a delicious addition to your repertoire of Southern cuisine. Enjoy the spicy goodness!