Name: Sesame Garlic Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 lb Green beans, trimmed and washed; 2 tbsp Soy sauce; 1 tbsp Sesame oil; 3 cloves Garlic, minced; 1 tbsp Sesame seeds; 1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

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I’m excited to share a simple yet delicious recipe: Sesame Garlic Green Beans. This dish combines the crispiness of fresh green beans with the rich flavors of sesame and garlic, creating a delightful side dish that pairs well with various main courses.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and health benefits. Cooking it in a wok pan allows you to use less oil, retaining the beans’ nutrients and crunchiness. This recipe is one of my favorites for its quick preparation and satisfying taste.

Ingredients Needed for Sesame Garlic Green Beans

1 lb Green beans, trimmed and washed
2 tbsp Soy sauce
1 tbsp Sesame oil
3 cloves Garlic, minced
1 tbsp Sesame seeds
1/2 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste

Substitutions and Variations:

Soy sauce: Tamari or coconut aminos for gluten-free options
Sesame oil: Olive oil or vegetable oil
Additions: Sliced almonds, a splash of lemon juice for extra zing

Preparation Steps

First, gather all your ingredients and tools. To prepare the green beans, trim the ends and wash them thoroughly.

For the garlic, peel and mince three cloves. This preparation should take approximately 10 minutes.

Heat your wok pan over medium-high heat for about 1-2 minutes before adding any ingredients.

This preheating step is crucial for achieving the signature wok cooking style.

Cooking Instructions

Heat the Wok Pan: Heat your wok over medium-high heat for 1-2 minutes. Add the sesame oil and let it heat for another 30 seconds.

Cook the Garlic: Add minced garlic to the heated oil. Stir continuously for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Avoid burning the garlic as it turns bitter quickly.

Add Green Beans: Toss in the prepared green beans. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes. Cook until they start to blister and become tender-crisp. Keep stirring to ensure even cooking.

Seasoning: Pour in the soy sauce and sprinkle the red pepper flakes if using. Mix well to combine. Continue to stir for another 1-2 minutes until the beans are well coated.

Finish with Sesame Seeds: Sprinkle sesame seeds over the green beans. Stir for another minute to toast the seeds lightly.

Final Touch: Adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste. Remove the wok from heat.

Essential Note: Avoid overcooking the green beans; they should retain a bit of crunch for the best texture and flavor.

Also see: Easy Beef and Celery Stir-Fry Recipe

Cooking Tips and Tricks

Consistent Heat: Keep your wok at a consistently high temperature to ensure quick and even cooking.
Avoid Overcrowding: Stir-fry in batches if your wok is small to avoid steaming the beans.
Freshness Matters: Use fresh green beans for the best texture and flavor.
Garlic Tips: Finely mince garlic for even flavor distribution. Avoid pre-minced garlic as it lacks fresh taste.

Common Mistakes to Avoid:

Burning Garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic to prevent it from burning and turning bitter.
Not Preheating the Wok: Skipping this step can result in uneven cooking.
Overcooking: Green beans should remain slightly crisp, so don’t cook them for too long.

Serving Suggestions

Sesame Garlic Green Beans make a perfect side dish. Pair them with:
Grilled chicken or fish
Stir-fried tofu
Steamed rice or quinoa

Storing and Reheating Leftovers:

Storing: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a wok or skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes. Avoid microwaving as it can make the beans soggy.

The Bottom Line

Sesame Garlic Green Beans are a quick, healthy, and tasty addition to any meal.

Using a wok pan enhances the flavors and keeps the beans crunchy.

Give this recipe a try and share your experiences.

I’m confident you’ll find this dish as delightful as I do. For more delicious wok pan recipes, stay connected with Kit Yum.