Stir-Fried Green Beans

Adapted from a recipe by Jackie O. at allrecipes.com. Can substitute hoisin sauce for the black bean sauce for a different flavor. If you have "black bean and garlic sauce", reduce or eliminate the garlic! Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to taste.

• Ready In: 35 mins
• Serves: 4
• Yields: 1 lb

Ingredients

• 1 1⁄2 tablespoons  vegetable oil
• 1⁄4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 1⁄4 lbs fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons  minced garlic, about 3 cloves
• 1 1⁄2 teaspoons  minced  fresh gingerroot
• 1⁄4 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1⁄4 teaspoon fresh coarse ground black pepper
• 1⁄4 cup  black bean sauce
• 1  tablespoon  white sesame seeds

Directions

1. In a large wok, heat oil with red pepper flakes over medium-high heat. Stir in green beans; cook, stirring frequently, for 1 to 2 minutes. Stir in garlic and ginger; cook, stirring frequently, for 3 to 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, and then stir in black bean sauce. Cover and continue cooking until green beans are tender, about 10 minutes. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving.