Transform canned Green Beans into an irresistibly crispy and caramelized side dish! When it comes to canned green beans, most people envision a lackluster, mushy side dish that often doesn’t receive the appreciation it deserves. Fresh green beans tend to take the spotlight in recipes, leaving canned green beans relegated to the back of the pantry. However, with a touch of care and culinary finesse, we can elevate those humble canned green beans into a delectable dish suitable for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike.

Recipe Origins

This cherished family recipe has been a staple for over half a century, gracing our dinner tables on countless occasions, including Thanksgiving and Christmas. The popularity of these fried green beans is so undeniable that we find ourselves tripling the recipe for these festive gatherings, with guests eagerly vying for the last remnants in the bowl. To make this recipe plant-based, I’ve made a few simple tweaks, substituting traditional butter and Parmesan with plant-based alternatives. However, the heart of the recipe for fried green beans remains true to our family tradition.

Ingredients

To craft these fried green beans, you’ll need the following ingredients:

Canned Cut Green Beans: Opt for canned cut green beans, as French-style beans don’t achieve the desired crispy texture, and fresh green beans tend to turn out overly crisp.
Onion: Any type of onion will suffice, but I favor yellow onions for their caramelization, which beautifully complements the green beans. It’s important not to substitute onion powder in this step, as it imparts a significant portion of the fried green beans flavor.
Garlic: Fresh garlic is the best choice, but in a pinch, you can use powdered or jarred garlic.
Plant Butter: Ideal for browning, choose a plant-based butter like Myokos. If plant butter isn’t available, olive oil makes a suitable substitute.
Salt & Pepper: Keep in mind that if your canned green beans and butter are already salted, adding more salt may prove excessive. Season with pepper to your taste.
Parmesan: Although optional, plant-based parmesan adds a delightful touch to the fried green beans.

How to Make

Now, let’s delve into the steps to create this delightful dish of fried green beans. If you’d like to watch a short video on the process click here.

Begin by heating a skillet over medium heat, then add the butter. Once the butter is sizzling, introduce the diced onion to the pan. Sauté the onion for about 5 minutes, allowing it to caramelize, which will beautifully complement the fried green beans.
Following the onion’s sauté, add the garlic to the pan. Continue sautéing for an additional minute, letting the fragrant aroma of the garlic infuse into the mixture.
Increase the heat slightly and add the canned green beans to the pan. Season with salt and pepper according to your preference. Sauté the green beans until they achieve the level of browning and crispiness that suits your personal taste. This process typically takes between 5 to 20 minutes, depending on your desired level of crispiness.
For an optional finishing touch, serve your fried green beans with a sprinkle of plant-based parmesan, which adds an extra layer of flavor and texture.

Conclusion

With these straightforward steps, you can effortlessly transform canned green beans into a delectable side dish that will have everyone coming back for more. Say goodbye to the days of bland, mushy canned green beans, and welcome a new family favorite that shines at any gathering.