SAUTÉED GREEN BEANS WITH SHALLOTS AND NUTMEG

SAUTÉED GREEN BEANS WITH SHALLOTS AND NUTMEG image

Yield 4

Number Of Ingredients 5

1 pound fresh, crisp and unblemished green beans
2 shallots (about 2 ounces total), peeled and cut in fine brunoise
3 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons water
Kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper and freshly grated nutmeg to taste

Steps:

Remove stem ends from beans. Put beans in a bowl and cover with warm water. Set aside until water comes to room temperature. Drain beans, then cook in a gallon of boiling salted water until done, 3 to 5 minutes depending on thickness. Beans are done when they still have a slight raw flavor but are crisp and bright green. As soon as beans are done, remove from pot and shock in ice water. Drain and, if desired, refrigerate until ready to use. To prepare: Place beans and remaining ingredients in a large sauté pan and place over medium-high heat. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until water is evaporated and butter coats beans and cooks shallots, about two minutes. Continue sautéing 1 to 2 minutes (possibly longer if beans are cold from the refrigerator) or until beans are heated through. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve.