master-cooks | The All American History Of Green Bean Casserole

The Green Bean Casserole is a classic American dish with a rich history that dates back to the mid-20th century. Created in 1955 by Dorcas Reilly, a home economist at the Campbell Soup Company, the dish was originally conceived as a simple and convenient recipe using ingredients commonly found in American kitchens. The original recipe consisted of green beans, cream of mushroom soup, and crispy fried onions, which together created a flavorful and comforting side dish. Its ease of preparation and reliance on pantry staples quickly made it popular, especially for holiday gatherings like Thanksgiving. Over the years, Green Bean Casserole has become a beloved staple in American cuisine, often seen as a nostalgic comfort food that brings families together. Its lasting appeal lies in its simplicity and the way it evokes memories of family traditions. Variations have emerged, with some adding cheese, bacon, or fresh ingredients to enhance the flavor, but the classic version remains a favorite. The dish's enduring popularity is a testament to its ability to adapt while maintaining its essential character, making it a cherished part of American culinary heritage.

Fun facts about green bean casserole

Although the recipe for green bean casserole has remained unchanged since its official introduction, the dish originally adhered to specific food styling guidelines. For instance, the fried onions were not allowed to be placed in the center of the casserole. These restrictions have since been lifted, which explains the variety of appearances seen in photos of homemade versions. Interestingly, green bean casserole was not initially created as a Thanksgiving dish, but it has certainly become a staple for the holiday, with over 50% of Campbell's cream of mushroom soup sales occurring between November and January.

In fact, the preparation of this casserole reportedly accounts for more than 40% of cream of mushroom soup sales in the United States. There are numerous ways to enhance the classic green bean casserole recipe, such as incorporating ingredients that were left out of the final version—like the popular Worcestershire sauce, a touch of ham, or a dash of zesty celery salt.

For those curious to see the brilliance of Dorcas Reilly firsthand, the original recipe card for the Green Bean Bake is on display in the same building that houses Thomas Edison's light bulb: the National Inventors Hall of Fame in Akron, Ohio. This card was donated in 2002 and remains available for viewing today.

The All-American History Of Green Bean Casserole

Fun facts about green bean casserole

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