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Homemade Asian Green Beans photo

Asian Green Beans

Tender-crisp green beans tossed in a savory, slightly spicy soy-sesame sauce.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Total Time 22 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound green beans cleaned and ends trimmed
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 clove garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce low sodium
  • 1 teaspoon dark soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon honey
  • 1 tablespoon chili garlic sauce (such as sambal oelek)
  • 1 tablespoon chili oil
  • 1 tablespoon sesame seeds toasted, for garnish

Equipment

  • 12.6-inch nonstick wok (with lid and spatula)

Method
 

  1. Heat a wok over medium-high heat and add the sesame oil until shimmering.
  2. Add the trimmed green beans to the wok and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
  3. While the beans cook, whisk together the minced garlic, soy sauce, dark soy sauce, honey, chili garlic sauce, and chili oil in a small bowl.
  4. Pour the sauce over the green beans and toss to coat evenly; continue to cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce is heated through and slightly thickened.
  5. Remove from heat, transfer to a serving dish, and garnish with toasted sesame seeds before serving.

Notes

  • Do not overcook the green beans; they should be bright green and tender-crisp.
  • Parboiling is not necessary.
  • Adjust heat and spice to taste by varying the chili garlic sauce or oil.
  • Optional add-ins include mushrooms, baby bok choy, or broccoli for variety.
  • Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
  • Toast sesame seeds before garnishing for best flavor.