Grateful Grits

Cooking doesn’t always have to be an intricate dance of numerous ingredients and hours spent laboring in the kitchen. In fact, some of the most satisfying dishes can be born from the elegance of simplicity, as is the case with this recipe. While many of my culinary endeavors tend to be grand affairs filled with a symphony of ingredients, every now and then, I find myself craving the straightforward joy of a recipe that’s not only easy but also caters to even the pickiest of eaters.

So, let’s dive into the beauty of this uncomplicated yet profoundly flavorful creation. First things first, it’s all about the green beans. Begin by giving them a little trim, which, in simpler terms, means snapping off the tips. It’s a simple act that not only tidies up the beans but also guarantees they cook to perfection.

Now, to elevate those green beans into a delightful side dish, we’ll employ the technique of blanching. In a large saucepan, fill it with water, then add a tablespoon of salt. Crank up the heat until the water reaches a rolling boil. Carefully introduce the green beans into the bubbling water and give them a gentle stir to ensure they’re fully immersed in the aquatic ballet. Let them twirl for about six minutes.

While the beans dance in the hot water, prepare a mixing bowl filled with ice water and position a colander in the sink. As the green beans have their moment in the boiling water, the ice water awaits patiently. Once the timer hits six minutes, escort the beans to the colander, then allow them to take a well-deserved plunge into the ice water. This blanching technique works wonders; it partially cooks the beans without turning them into a soggy mess. It’s like an express spa day for your green beans, and the ice water is the ultimate cooldown session.

Now, we move to the cast iron skillet, a trusty vessel for many a culinary adventure. Preheat it and add a modest amount of olive oil, just enough to provide a gentle coat for the pan. It’s time for the bacon to make its entrance. Slice it into small, savory strips. Personally, I find scissors to be an efficient bacon-wielding tool, but if your knife skills are top-notch, feel free to use your blade of choice. The bacon takes center stage in the cast iron, where it dances and sizzles until it transforms into a glorious, golden-brown masterpiece.

Adding a teaspoon or two of minced garlic to the bacon allows for an aromatic interlude, infusing the bacon with a touch of garlicky goodness. Once the garlic has mingled with the bacon for a minute or two, it’s time for the green beans to join the ensemble. They take their place in the skillet, mingling with the rich, smoky flavors of the bacon. A gentle sprinkle of salt and pepper brings harmony to the dish, enhancing its taste profile.

Let this ensemble simmer together for at least ten minutes, or until the green beans are tender and infused with the delightful bacon essence. These green beans are the quintessential side dish, a versatile companion to any main course. Plus, they can be prepared in advance and kept warm in the oven at a low 250 degrees while the rest of your meal takes shape. Bon appétit!

Bacon Infused Green Beans

Ingredients

1 lb of green beans, trimmed

Olive or Grapeseed oil

4 sliced of bacon, chopped

1-2 tsp of garlic

Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Once your green beans are trimmed, Blanch them in boiling water for six minutes. Drain them and put them in ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain them again and set aside.
2. Add a tablespoon of oil to a cast iron deep dish, or a Dutch oven and heat on medium heat. Add your chopped bacon and cook until golden brown.
3. Add the garlic and cook an additional minute or two.
4. Fold in your green beans and season with salt and pepper. Stir on medium low heat for approximately ten minutes or until nice and soft.