Wok or Skillet Asian-Style Fresh Green Beans

Kittencalskitchen's Note:

To save some time cook the green beans ahead, place in a zippered plastic bag and refrigerate until ready to use. Make certain to pat the green beans dry using a paper towel before sautéing them. If you like spicy like my family does add in 1-2 teaspoons dried chili flakes when sautéing the garlic. Just to let you know, I tried this recipe using Green Giant brand frozen whole beans and it was not as successful as using the fresh beans. Prep time does not include boiling the beans. This is a really great recipe for fresh summer green beans!

• Total Time: 15 mins
• Prep Time: 10 mins
• Cook Time: 5 mins

Ingredients:

Servings: 3

• 1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional or adjust to taste)
• 1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed (can use a little more if desired)
• black pepper
• salt (optional)
• cornstarch (mixed with cold water to thicken sauce)
• sliced almonds or sesame seed

Directions:

1. Cook the green beans in a pot of boiling salted water until JUST crisp-tender (about 3 minutes) plunge into an ice water bath to cool completely.
2. Drain well and pat the beans dry using paper towels.
3. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat; add in garlic and chili flakes (if using) stir-fry 1 minute.
4. Add in beans and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
5. Add in soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar and black pepper; cook until the sauce reduces slightly and coats the beans (about 1-1/2-2 minutes longer).
6. If you want a thick sauce mix a small amount of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and add in towards the end.
7. Add in the almonds or sesame seeds; toss to coat and transfer to a bowl.

Reviews

[Jug O'Mud]

These green beans really hit the spot! I chose not to thicken the sauce and found it wonderful as is..will perhaps use the cornstarch next go round. I also added slivered almonds and was really pleased with the result. AmandaMcG's suggested adding ginger--great idea (for next time). Overall, Kittencal's recipes never disappoint, and as usual, my family loved it! Thanks so much!

[policygirl]

Very tasty way to use fresh green beans - tons of flavor! I served them asian style lettuce chicken wraps and they were perfect!

[The Wallaces]

We've made these several times now and somehow forgot to review them, absolutely fabulous, my hubby's favorite Asian veggie side! The only difference is that we double the sauce for more flavor. Thanks for posting a wonderful recipe!