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Growing up, my family’s holiday table was incomplete without the traditional green bean casserole featuring creamy mushrooms and crunchy onions. However, inspired by a memorable trip through the picturesque villages of France, I decided to infuse this staple dish with a touch of Provençal flair. The result is French green bean casserole that retains the comfort and familiarity of the original but dazzles with new, sophisticated layers of flavor.

What Is French Green Bean Casserole?

French Green Bean Casserole is a classic American green bean casserole variation. It is made with French-style green beans and often features more refined or European-inspired ingredients.

Ingredients:

• 1 1/2 pounds of fresh green beans, trimmed and cut into bite-sized pieces
• 3 tablespoons of unsalted butter
• 3 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 8 ounces of cremini or baby Bella mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon of fresh thyme leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1/4 cup of all-purpose flour
• 1 cup of chicken or vegetable stock
• 1 cup of heavy cream
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
• 1/4 teaspoon of freshly grated nutmeg
• 1/2 cup of grated Gruyère cheese
• 1/2 cup of crispy fried onions (you can opt for homemade or store-bought).

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that it’s ready to go once your casserole is assembled.
2. Blanch the Green Beans: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans to the boiling water and cook them for about 5 minutes until they are bright green and tender but have a slight crunch. Once done, immediately plunge them into an ice water bath to stop the cooking process. This keeps the beans vibrant and crisp. Drain and set aside.

Sauté The Aromatics:

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and onion, sautéing until the onions are soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Toss in the mushrooms and cook until they are soft and browned approximately 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the chopped thyme, giving it a quick fry to release its flavors.

1. Make the Roux: Sprinkle the flour over the mushroom mixture and stir to combine. Cook for a couple of minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
2. Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the stock and heavy cream, stirring constantly. Bring the mixture to a simmer and keep stirring until the sauce thickens, about 5 minutes—season with salt, pepper, and nutmeg.
3. Combine the Beans and Sauce: Add the blanched green beans to the mushroom sauce mixture and stir until they are well coated.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Pour the green bean mixture into a greased 9×13-inch casserole dish. Spread evenly.
5. Add Cheese and Fried Onions: Sprinkle the grated Gruyère cheese over the green bean mixture, and then add an even layer of crispy fried onions.
6. Bake: Place the casserole into the heated oven and bake for about 20-25 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbling.
7. Garnish and Serve: Remove the casserole from the oven, let it sit for 5 minutes, then garnish with additional fresh thyme before serving.

Tips:

• Freshness Counts: Choose fresh, firm green beans for the best texture and flavor. Frozen green beans (thawed and well-drained) can be a close second if they’re not in season.
• Cheese Variations: If Gruyère is unavailable or you prefer a different taste, other cheeses like sharp cheddar, Comté, or even Brie could add an interesting twist to your dish.
• Mushroom Choices: For an even more French feel, consider using a mix of wild mushrooms. They offer a deeper, earthy flavor that elevates the casserole.
• Crisp Topping: If you decide to make your own crispy fried onions, thinly slice them, toss them in flour seasoned with salt and pepper, and fry them until golden. Caramelised onions can also be a delicious, softer alternative with a sweet note.
• Make Ahead: You can assemble the casserole (minus the cheese and fried onions) a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Add the toppings before baking.

What To Serve With

Main Courses:

Roast Chicken:

• A classic roast chicken is a perfect complement to the creamy and savory flavors of the casserole. The crispy skin and juicy meat balance the richness of the French green bean casserole.
• Roast the chicken with thyme, rosemary, and garlic for a cohesive flavor profile that mirrors the herby notes in the French green bean casserole

Herb-Crusted Pork Loin:

• The earthy, herbed flavors of a pork loin pair beautifully with the decadence of the casserole. Adding Dijon mustard or a rosemary crust will boost the flavors of the French green bean casserole.
• Serve sliced with light pan gravy or a mustard cream sauce to tie everything together.

Beef Tenderloin Or Steak:

• Grilled or roasted steak with a simple salt and pepper crust complements the casserole’s creamy texture. A red wine reduction or mushroom sauce could further elevate the pairing.
• Opt for filet mignon or beef medallions for more sophisticated dining.

• Herb-Baked Salmon: The buttery flavor of baked salmon seasoned with dill, lemon, and parsley pairs wonderfully with the casserole. The lightness of the fish cuts through the richness and provides a balanced plate.
• Braised Lamb: Lamb shanks or chops braised in red wine, and herbs are a tender and flavorful partner for your casserole. Their deeper, robust taste adds dimension to the meal.

Accompanying Side Dishes:

• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a classic pairing, offering a comforting and complementary texture alongside the casserole. Infuse the potatoes with garlic or Parmesan for an elevated twist.
• Crusty Bread or Dinner Rolls: Freshly baked baguettes, crusty sourdough, or buttery dinner rolls are great for scooping up some of the casserole’s sauce.
• Rice Pilaf: Serve a fragrant rice pilaf with sautéed onions, garlic, and almonds for a delightful side that adds nuttiness and fluffiness to the meal.
• Buttered Noodles: Simple buttered egg noodles or pasta tossed with olive oil and fresh parsley can create a lighter, neutral counterpart to the casserole’s richness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Another excellent choice! Roasted carrots, parsnips, Brussels sprouts, or asparagus seasoned with olive oil, garlic, and thyme balance the creamy casserole with a vibrant, slightly crispy texture.
• Simple Side Salad: A refreshing green salad with a light vinaigrette or a lemon-honey dressing offers brightness and acidity to cut through the dish’s richness. Ingredients like arugula, spinach, or mixed greens pair well.

Health Benefits

Nutrient-Rich Green Beans

• High in Fiber: Green beans are an excellent source of dietary fiber essential for maintaining healthy digestion and bowel movements. Fiber also helps to feel full, which can aid management.
• Vitamins and Minerals: These legumes are packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as folic acid, which are crucial for various body functions, including immune system support, blood clotting, and cell growth. Green beans are also a good source of minerals like iron, calcium, and magnesium.

Mushrooms’ Health Benefits

• Low in Calories: Mushrooms, which are often used in the creamy sauce of the casserole, are low in calories yet high in flavor, making them an excellent ingredient for managing weight without sacrificing taste.
• Boosts Immunity: They are known to contain antioxidants, selenium, and vitamin D (especially if exposed to sunlight), which help strengthen the immune system and protect body cells from damage.

• Healthier Creamy Sauce Options: The traditional mushroom cream sauce can be high in fat and calories but can be made healthier with substitutions like low-fat milk, Greek yoghurt, or cashew cream for dairy-free people. These alternatives can reduce the calorie count while providing protein and probiotics (like Greek yoghurt).
• Onion Toppings: While crispy fried onions are a delicious topping, opting for baked or air-fried onions can reduce the amount of oil used, making the dish healthier. Onions are a great source of vitamins, minerals, and potent plant compounds linked to health benefits, including improved heart health.
• Heart Health: The French Green Bean Casserole can contribute to a heart-healthy diet using healthy preparation methods and ingredient substitutions. The fiber in green beans helps manage cholesterol levels, while the vitamins and minerals can support overall heart function.
• Anti-inflammatory Properties: Some ingredients in the casserole, like green beans and mushrooms, have anti-inflammatory properties, which can help reduce inflammation in the body and potentially lower the risk of chronic diseases.

Final Thoughts

Whether preparing for a festive gathering or simply looking for a tasty way to spruce up your dinner menu, the French Green Bean Casserole stands out as a versatile, delicious, and wholesome choice. Remember, the key to maximizing the health benefits of any dish lies in the selection of ingredients and cooking methods. Opting for fresh vegetables, leaner cream options, and healthier toppings like baked onions or nuts can elevate the nutritional value of your casserole.

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