Green Beans in a Crock Pot

Green Beans in a Crock Pot: A Simple and Delicious Recipe for Unforgettable Moments

If you're looking for a quick and flavorful recipe that will remind you of family meals, green beans in a Crock Pot is the perfect choice. This dish is not only easy to make but also healthy, packed with vitamins and minerals. Green beans are a versatile vegetable, rich in fiber, that will enhance your diet and give you an energy boost.

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 4 hours and 30 minutes
Total Time: 4 hours and 40 minutes
Servings: 4-6

Ingredients:

- 700 g fresh or frozen green beans
- 500 ml clear vegetable broth (or chicken broth if you prefer)
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Ingredients: Start by washing the green beans thoroughly. If using fresh beans, trim the ends and, if desired, you can break them into two or three pieces, depending on your preference. If using frozen beans, there’s no need to thaw them before cooking. Finely chop the onion and mince the garlic. Grate the fresh ginger.

2. Add Ingredients to the Crock Pot: Place the onion, garlic, ginger, and oil in the ceramic pot of the Crock Pot. These ingredients will blend perfectly to create a delicious flavor and unmistakable aroma.

3. Add the Broth: Pour the vegetable broth (or chicken broth) over the onion mixture and spices. The broth will give the dish a deep flavor and help the beans cook evenly.

4. Add the Green Beans: Now, add the prepared green beans to the Crock Pot. Gently stir to ensure that the beans are well coated with the liquid in the pot.

5. Cooking in the Crock Pot: Put the lid on the appliance and set the Crock Pot to the "high" setting for 4 hours and 30 minutes. This is the perfect time to organize the rest of your day. You can attend to other activities or relax, knowing your meal is cooking on its own.

6. Finishing the Dish: About 10 minutes before it’s done, check the beans. Once they are tender and cooked through, add salt and pepper to taste.

7. Serving: Once the cooking time is up, sprinkle the chopped parsley on top. This will not only add a splash of color but also a fresh and vibrant aroma.

Serving Suggestions: Green beans in a Crock Pot can be served as a side dish alongside grilled meat or fish. It’s also an excellent option for a vegetarian lunch, paired with a fresh salad. If you want to add an extra burst of flavor, you can drizzle the dish with a few drops of lemon juice before serving.

Possible Variations: You can experiment by adding other vegetables, such as diced carrots or potatoes. Additionally, if you're a fan of spices, you can add a bit of chili pepper for a kick of heat.

Nutritional Benefits: Green beans are an excellent source of vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folic acid and fiber. This dish is low in calories, with about 120 calories per serving, making it ideal for a balanced diet.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use canned green beans?
Yes, you can use canned green beans, but the cooking time will be much shorter. Add them in the last 30 minutes of cooking.

2. What else can I add to the recipe?
You can add spices like oregano or thyme to enhance the flavor.

3. Can I make this recipe without a Crock Pot?
Absolutely! You can prepare the beans in a pot, cooking them on low heat for about 30-40 minutes.

This Crock Pot green beans recipe is not only simple and delicious but also an excellent way to incorporate healthy vegetables into your diet. So don’t hesitate to try it and personalize it to your taste! Enjoy every bite and cherish the moments spent with loved ones. Bon appétit!