Can You Put Raw Bacon in Green Beans? Everything You Need to Know

Adding raw bacon to green beans may seem like an easy way to infuse flavor. However there are some important safety considerations when using raw bacon in recipes. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of putting raw bacon in green beans including guidance on how to do it safely.

An Overview of Adding Raw Bacon to Green Beans

Cooking green beans with bacon is a popular preparation that adds rich, smoky flavor to the naturally sweet and earthy beans. Raw bacon contains nitrates that need to be cooked to make them safe for consumption. So while you can put raw bacon in green beans, it’s crucial to cook the bacon fully before eating.

Adding crispy, cooked bacon pieces is an easy way to give beans a boost of savory umami. The rendered bacon fat also makes a flavorful cooking oil for sautéing the greens. When handled properly, bacon can transform an everyday side into something special.

Is it Safe to Use Raw Bacon in Green Beans?

Eating undercooked bacon poses a risk of foodborne illness. Raw pork can contain parasites and bacteria that are destroyed by thorough cooking. For optimal safety, bacon should be cooked until it reaches an internal temperature of at least 145°F.

Partially cooked bacon may appear done, but still harbor contaminants. Always verify doneness with a food thermometer. Visible sizzling and browning alone are unreliable ways to judge if bacon is fully cooked.

When adding raw bacon to green beans, fry the bacon separately until crispy before mixing it in. Never add raw or partially cooked bacon directly to the beans. Take steps to prevent cross-contamination by using separate utensils and cookware.

Tips for Safely Cooking Bacon for Green Beans

Follow these tips for safely preparing bacon as an ingredient for green beans:

• Cook bacon strips or pieces in a skillet over medium heat. Turn frequently until uniformly browned and crispy.

• Bake bacon on a foil-lined sheet pan in the oven at 400°F, turning halfway through. Bake until dark brown and crispy.

• Microwave bacon between paper towels. Cook at high power in 1 minute increments until crispy.

• Fry chopped bacon in a saucepan, stirring often, until browned and rendered. Pour off excess fat before adding to beans.

• Crumble fully cooked bacon over beans right before serving. The residual heat will lightly wilt the greens.

• Save rendered bacon fat for cooking the green beans. Add it to the skillet for flavorful sautéing.

What Type of Bacon Works Best with Green Beans?

Any type of fully cooked bacon makes a tasty match for green beans. Smoky slab bacons add robust flavor. Regular sliced grocery store bacon is another convenient choice. Or opt for a specialty bacon like:

• Applewood smoked – Deep smoky and woodsy flavor

• Peppered – Spicy cracked black peppercorns

• Maple – Sweet touch of maple syrup

• Turkey – Leaner alternative with milder taste

Thick cut bacon tends to stay chewy after cooking. Thinner slices get crisper and crumble nicely over the beans. Ultimately, choose your favorite bacon for the recipe.

Alternative Ways to Flavor Green Beans Without Bacon

If you want to avoid using bacon, there are many other options for flavoring green beans:

• Sauté in olive oil with garlic, shallots, or onions

• Season with herbs like rosemary, thyme, oregano, or basil

• Add spices such as cumin, paprika, cayenne, or red pepper flakes

• Toss with lemon juice and zest for brightness

• Drizzle with balsamic vinegar or sherry vinegar

• Top with grated Parmesan, pecorino, or feta cheese

• Roast with mushrooms, tomatoes, or bell peppers

• Sauté chopped kale or spinach for color and nutrition

• Mix in toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts

Step-by-Step Instructions for Cooking Green Beans with Bacon

Follow this simple process for foolproof green beans with bacon:

Ingredients:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 3-4 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Prepare the bacon: Cook until browned and crispy in a skillet over medium heat. Remove bacon bits and reserve for later.

2. Heat olive oil in the skillet over medium heat. Sauté shallot and garlic until fragrant, 1-2 minutes.

3. Add green beans and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until bright green and slightly softened, about 5 minutes.

4. Add 2 tablespoons water and cover skillet. Steam for 2 more minutes until beans are crisp-tender.

5. Remove lid and increase heat to high. Cook until any remaining water evaporates, about 1 minute.

6. Remove from heat. Stir in cooked bacon pieces and season with more salt and pepper if desired.

7. Transfer to a serving dish. Sprinkle with more crispy bacon bits if you like. Enjoy!

With flavorful bacon and quick cooking, it’s easy to bring this classic side dish to your dinner table. This method ensures the bacon is fully cooked for safety, while infusing maximum smoky flavor into the beans.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long is it safe to store cooked bacon for green beans?

Cooked bacon will keep up to 5-7 days refrigerated in an airtight container. For longer storage, freeze bacon pieces for up to 2-3 months. Thaw before using.

Can I cook the bacon with the green beans all at once?

It’s not recommended to start with raw bacon in the beans, as it may not cook thoroughly. Always pre-cook bacon separately first.

What about adding bacon to canned green beans?

Pre-cooked bacon can be used to enhance canned beans too. Sauté the bacon first, then add canned beans and heat through until warmed.

Can I use bacon fat to cook other vegetables too?

Absolutely! The rendered fat adds wonderful flavor when cooking veggies like Brussels sprouts, asparagus, spinach, and kale.

What side dishes go well with green beans and bacon?

Some tasty pairings include mashed potatoes, rice pilaf, mac and cheese, cornbread, buttermilk biscuits, or a fresh crisp salad.

Putting Raw Bacon in Green Beans Can Work Deliciously When Done Properly

While raw bacon carries risks, preparing it safely opens up an easy avenue for infusing green beans with smoky, savory flavor. By cooking bacon fully before mixing it in, you can avoid any health concerns.

Whether you fry up a few slices or use the rendered fat, bacon can quickly bring this simple veggie side to life. Together with smart cooking techniques, the two ingredients create a fast and delicious dish to add to your repertoire.