There’s a reason why certain dishes become holiday staples, and Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch is a shining example. This creamy, savory, and undeniably comforting casserole has graced Thanksgiving tables for generations, evoking warm memories and delighting palates with its simple yet satisfying flavors. But who says we have to limit ourselves to special occasions?
This article delves into the heart of the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, exploring its history, ingredients, and the secrets to achieving that perfect balance of creamy, crunchy, and utterly irresistible. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, this deep dive into the world of homemade green bean casserole promises to be both informative and inspiring.
A Casserole is Born: Uncovering the History of Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
While green beans have been enjoyed for centuries, the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, as we know it today, emerged in the mid-20th century. In 1955, Campbell’s Soup Company, aiming to promote their cream of mushroom soup, developed a recipe that would become an American classic. This simple yet ingenious combination of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions captured the hearts (and stomachs) of countless families.
Building Blocks of Flavor: Ingredients in Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
Fresh Green Beans
The stars of the show, fresh green beans provide the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch with its vibrant color, satisfying crunch, and subtly sweet, earthy flavor. Opt for crisp, bright green beans for the best results.
Cream of Mushroom Soup
Often considered the heart of the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, cream of mushroom soup adds a creamy, savory richness that binds all the ingredients together. Making it from scratch allows for ultimate flavor control and personalization.
Milk
Used to thin out the cream of mushroom soup, milk adds a touch of sweetness and helps create that velvety smooth texture that makes Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch so irresistible.
Soy Sauce
A surprising yet crucial ingredient, soy sauce adds a depth of umami and a subtle salty note to the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
Black Pepper
A pinch of black pepper adds a welcome touch of heat and complexity to the Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, balancing out the richness of the other ingredients.
Crispy Fried Onions
No Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch is complete without a generous topping of crispy fried onions. This crunchy, savory element provides a delightful textural contrast and adds a burst of flavor with every bite.
Flexibility in Flavor: Substitutions in Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
While the traditional Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch is a classic for a reason, there’s always room for personalization. If you’re dairy-free, you can substitute the milk and cream of mushroom soup with plant-based alternatives. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use gluten-free fried onions and check that your soy sauce is gluten-free.
Beyond the Classic: Variations on Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
Once you’ve mastered the classic Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch, the possibilities for variation are endless. Some recipes incorporate crispy bacon bits for a smoky, salty twist. Others add a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese for a tangy, cheesy element. The key is to have fun and make this classic dish your own!
Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
Ingredients
- 1 lb 450g fresh green beans, trimmed
- 1 tablespoon 14g unsalted butter
- 1/2 cup 60g chopped onion
- 1/4 cup 30g all-purpose flour
- 1 cup 240ml chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 cup 120ml heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup 50g French fried onions
Instructions
- Blanch green beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5 minutes, until bright green and slightly tender. Drain and immediately plunge into an ice bath to stop the cooking. Drain again and set aside.
- Make the sauce: Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 5 minutes, until softened. Whisk in the flour and cook for 1 minute, until smooth. Gradually whisk in the broth and heavy cream until the sauce is smooth and thickened. Season with salt and pepper.
- Assemble and bake: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). In a greased 9×13 inch (23x33cm) baking dish, combine the blanched green beans and the sauce. Top with the French fried onions.
- Bake: Bake for 20 minutes, or until bubbly and heated through.
Tips for Casserole Success: Notes on Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch
Blanch Your Beans: Blanching the green beans before adding them to the casserole ensures they cook evenly and retain their vibrant green color.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When frying the onions, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they crisp up evenly.
Add the Onions Last: For maximum crunch, sprinkle the crispy fried onions over the casserole just before serving.
FAQs: Addressing Your Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch Queries
Can I make Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, the flavors tend to meld and deepen when the casserole is made ahead of time.
How do I reheat Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch?
Reheat the casserole in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20-30 minutes.
Can I freeze Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch?
It’s not recommended to freeze the casserole with the crispy fried onions, as freezing can negatively impact their texture.
What can I serve with Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch?
This versatile casserole pairs well with a variety of main courses, from roasted turkey and ham to mashed potatoes and stuffing.
Why are my fried onions not crispy?
Ensure you’re not overcrowding the pan when frying the onions, and allow them to cool completely on a wire rack before adding them to the casserole.
Can I use canned green beans for Green Bean Casserole?
While fresh green beans are recommended for optimal flavor and texture, canned green beans can be used in a pinch.
How do I prevent my Green Bean Casserole from being watery?
Make sure to thoroughly drain the green beans and avoid using low-fat milk or cream of mushroom soup.
A Delicious Farewell
Green Bean Casserole Recipe From Scratch is more than just a side dish; it’s a symbol of comfort, tradition, and culinary creativity. By making it from scratch, we elevate this classic dish, infusing it with fresh flavors and personalized touches.
We invite you to explore our other articles for more culinary inspiration and recipe ideas to enhance your cooking repertoire. Happy cooking!
