ASIAN GREEN BEANS RECIPE - (4.6/5)

Asian Green Beans Recipe - (4.6/5) image

Provided by Foodiewife

Number Of Ingredients 12

1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, ends trimmed (frozen doesn't work as well)
2 tablespoons fresh garlic, chopped (or to taste)
1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional or adjust to taste)
NOTE: Chili Garlic Sauce makes a fast substitute for chopping garlic and adds some kick to it; I use 1 teaspoon of it.
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

Steps:

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. Drain well and pat the beans dry using paper towels. Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat; add in garlic and chili flakes (if using) stir-fry 1 minute. Add in beans and stir-fry for about 2 minutes. 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 to 2 minutes longer). 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. Add in the almonds or sesame seeds; toss to coat and transfer to a bowl.