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#### **4. Onion**
Onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth of flavor to the green beans as they cook slowly. You can use yellow, white, or red onions for this recipe. The onions will soften and become caramelized as they slow-cook, infusing the beans with a delicious, savory taste.
#### **5. Broth (Chicken, Vegetable, or Beef)**
Broth adds a rich, savory base to the slow-cooked green beans, helping them to stay moist and flavorful throughout the cooking process. Chicken broth is a classic choice, but you can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option or beef broth for a heartier flavor.
#### **6. Salt and Pepper**
Simple seasoning is key to bringing out the best in your green beans. Salt and pepper are essential, but feel free to add additional herbs or spices, such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika, to suit your personal taste.
#### **7. Optional Add-ins**
While the above ingredients will give you a delicious and flavorful dish, you can easily customize your slow-cooked green beans by adding a few extras. Here are some ideas:
– **Bacon**: Adds a smoky, salty crunch to your beans.
– **Parmesan Cheese**: Sprinkled on top for an extra savory finish.
– **Almonds or Pecans**: Toasted nuts for added texture and flavor.
– **Red Pepper Flakes**: For a bit of heat and spice.
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### **Step-by-Step Guide: How to Make Slow Cooker Green Beans**
Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making these simple yet sensational slow cooker green beans.
#### **Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans**
If you’re using fresh green beans, start by trimming the ends and washing them thoroughly. This removes any dirt or debris that might be on the beans. If you’re using frozen green beans, there’s no need to thaw them—just add them directly to the slow cooker.
#### **Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic (Optional)**
While not essential, sautéing the onion and garlic in butter (or olive oil) before adding them to the slow cooker can enhance their flavor. This step helps to bring out the natural sweetness of the onion and gives the garlic a chance to become fragrant.
– In a skillet over medium heat, melt 2 tablespoons of butter.
– Add the diced onion and cook for about 5 minutes, until softened and translucent.
– Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Once the onion and garlic are sautéed, transfer them to the slow cooker.
#### **Step 3: Add the Green Beans and Broth**
Place the green beans in the slow cooker and pour in the broth (about 1 cup for every pound of beans). You want the beans to be mostly covered by the liquid. If needed, you can add a bit more broth to ensure that the beans are sufficiently submerged.
#### **Step 4: Season the Beans**
Add 1 teaspoon of salt and 1/2 teaspoon of pepper to the slow cooker. Stir to combine, ensuring that the seasonings are evenly distributed. This is also the perfect time to add any optional seasonings or herbs—such as thyme, rosemary, or paprika.
#### **Step 5: Add the Butter**
Dot the top of the green beans with small pats of butter (about 2-3 tablespoons). As the beans cook, the butter will melt into the broth, creating a rich and flavorful sauce.
#### **Step 6: Slow Cook the Green Beans**
Cover the slow cooker with a lid and set it to cook on low for 4-6 hours, or on high for 2-3 hours. The cooking time will depend on how tender you like your green beans, but generally, 4 hours on low will result in perfectly tender green beans. Check the beans halfway through the cooking time and stir to ensure they are cooking evenly.
#### **Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!**
Once the green beans are tender and fully cooked, give them a final stir, taste for seasoning, and adjust if needed. You can serve them immediately as a side dish, or garnish them with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese, crispy bacon bits, or toasted nuts for extra flavor and texture.
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