Green beans are a staple vegetable in many households, and one recipe that has become particularly popular is the Bill Miller green bean recipe.
The dish is a classic side item served at Bill Miller Bar-B-Q restaurants, and it has been enjoyed by many for years.
We will detail everything you need to know about the recipe, including its history, ingredients, and step-by-step instructions for making it yourself.
Contents
- 1 Who Created the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
- 2 What Are the Ingredients in the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
- 3 When Should You Serve the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
- 4 How to Make the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
- 5 Pros and Cons of the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
- 6 Alternatives to the Bill Miller Green Bean
- 7 How Does the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe Compare to Other Green Bean?
- 8 Tips for Making the Perfect Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
Who Created the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q is a beloved restaurant chain that specializes in Texas-style barbecue. The company was founded in 1953 by Bill Miller himself, and it has since grown to more than 70 locations across Texas.
While the origins of the green bean recipe are unclear, it has been a menu item at the restaurant for decades and has become synonymous with the brand.
What Are the Ingredients in the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
The Bill Miller green bean recipe is made with simple, yet flavorful ingredients. Here are the ingredients you’ll need:
- Fresh green beans
- Bacon
- Minced onion
- Sugar
- Salt
- Black pepper
When Should You Serve the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe?
The Bill Miller green bean recipe is a versatile side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.
It’s especially popular during the summer months when fresh green beans are abundant and barbecue season is in full swing.
However, you can serve this dish any time of the year as a delicious complement to your meal.
How to Make the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
Follow these step-by-step instructions to make the Bill Miller green bean recipe:
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large skillet or frying pan, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon from the pan and set it aside, leaving the bacon grease in the pan.
- Add the chopped onion to the pan and sauté until it becomes translucent and slightly golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Add the green beans to the pan and toss them in the bacon grease, onions, and garlic. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Pour the chicken broth into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for about 10-15 minutes, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
- Once the green beans are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the lid and let any excess liquid evaporate. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle the cooked bacon pieces over the green beans and give them a gentle toss to incorporate the flavors.
- Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and serve them hot as a delicious side dish.
Enjoy your homemade Bill Miller’s Green Beans!
Pros and Cons of the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
Like any recipe, the Bill Miller green bean recipe has its pros and cons. Here are some to consider:
Pros:
- The recipe is easy to follow and uses simple ingredients.
- It’s a delicious way to enjoy fresh green beans.
- The addition of bacon adds a smoky, savory flavor.
Cons:
- The dish is not vegetarian-friendly due to the use of bacon.
- Some people may find the amount of sugar used in the recipe to be too high.
Alternatives to the Bill Miller Green Bean
If you’re looking for other ways to prepare green beans, here are some alternatives to consider:
- Roasted green beans with garlic and parmesan
- Grilled green beans with lemon and olive oil
- Stir-fried green beans with soy sauce and ginger
How Does the Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe Compare to Other Green Bean?
Compared to other green bean recipes, the Bill Miller version stands out for its use of bacon and sugar.
While some people may find these additions too heavy-handed, others enjoy the smoky, sweet flavor they bring to the dish.
Additionally, the recipe is quite simple and easy to prepare, making it a great option for busy weeknights or large gatherings.
Tips for Making the Perfect Bill Miller Green Bean Recipe
Here are some tips to ensure your Bill Miller green bean turns out perfectly:
Be sure tostart with fresh green beans, preferably ones that are bright green and firm to the touch.
Wash and trim the ends of the green beans before cooking them.
When boiling the green beans, add a pinch of salt to the water for added flavor.
Avoid overcooking the green beans to maintain their crispness and vibrant color. It’s best to cook them until they’re just tender but still slightly firm to the bite.
After cooking, shock the green beans in ice water to stop the cooking process and preserve their color and texture.
For the sauce, use high-quality bacon and render it until crispy. Then, sauté onions and garlic in the bacon fat for added depth of flavor.
Add a touch of sweetness to balance out the savory flavors by including a teaspoon or two of brown sugar in the sauce.
Finally, toss the green beans in the sauce just before serving to ensure even coating. Garnish with more crispy bacon bits, if desired.