Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans: A Quick and Flavourful Side Dish
Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans is a simple yet sensational side dish that my family loves to enjoy when we eat Chinese food at our favourite restaurant: As a parent, I’ve always encouraged my children to explore a variety of flavours and cuisines. When it comes to Chinese cuisine, their love for the aromatic, crispy, and perfectly seasoned garlic green beans has remained unwavering. I can’t help but chuckle at their excitement when the dish arrives, and they immediately start digging in, each bite met with a chorus of “mmm’s” and satisfied smiles.
These Chinese-style Garlic Green Beans are a testament to the fact that a few simple ingredients, when prepared with care, can create a side dish that’s not only incredibly flavourful but also immensely satisfying. The vibrant green beans, infused with the irresistible aroma of garlic, offer a delightful contrast of textures that make every bite a pure pleasure.
Now, I’m eager to guide you through the process of preparing these restaurant-quality garlic green beans in your own kitchen. You’ll discover that this recipe is not only hassle-free but also a fantastic way to introduce your family to the flavours of Chinese cuisine right at home. So, let’s roll up our sleeves, gather our ingredients, and prepare this dish that will surely become part of your family’s dining repertoire.
Basic Ingredients for Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans
Garlic Green Beans:
Green Beans: These vibrant vegetables are the star of the dish, bringing in a delightful crunch and freshness. They are a rich source of vitamins and fibre, making it a nutritious choice.
Minced Garlic: A powerhouse of flavour, garlic adds a depth and aroma to the dish, elevating it to a gourmet level.
Salt: A fundamental ingredient that enhances the natural flavours of the green beans and garlic.
Vegetable Oil: Used for frying, it imparts a golden hue to the green beans, giving them a tempting appearance and texture.
Optional Garnish:
Red Pepper Flakes: These add a zing to the dish, creating a beautiful contrast with the green beans.
Toasted Sesame Seeds: They lend a nice crunch and nutty flavor, enhancing the overall dining experience.
Preparation Tips for Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans
- Ensure the green beans are well-dried to avoid splattering during frying. It’s advisable to work in batches, ensuring even frying.
- Be cautious while handling the hot oil and use a wok that distributes heat evenly.
Serving Tips for Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans
- Serve this dish as a side with other Chinese main course delicacies. It pairs wonderfully with egg-fried rice, chicken chow mein, or potstickers.
- You can also present it on a platter garnished with additional ingredients like a drizzle of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh herbs to enhance its visual appeal and taste.
storage tips
- Store the leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate.
- It’s best enjoyed within 2-3 days. To reheat, use a pan over medium heat to retain the crunchiness.
Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans (Full Video)
Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans
Ingredients
- 500 g green beans, thoroughly rinsed and pat dry
- 2 ½ tbsp garlic, finely minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ cup vegetable oil, preferably for frying
Optional Garnish
- a sparkle of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat
- a sparkle of toasted sesame seeds for a crunchy finish
Instructions
- Prepare the Green Beans: Begin by trimming the hard ends of the green beans. If they are too long, snap them in half to make them bite-sized.
- Heat the Oil: Place a wok on medium-high heat and pour in the vegetable oil, letting it get hot and ready for frying the beans.
- Fry the Green Beans: Add the green beans in batches once the oil is hot. Fry them for about a minute or until they start to wrinkle slightly on the surface but still maintain a vivid green hue. Use a spider strainer to lift the beans from the oil, transferring them onto a plate lined with paper towels. Repeat until all the beans are done, and if you prefer less grease, give them a gentle blot with additional paper towels.
- Create the Garlicky Base: Discard excess oil, retaining about two tablespoons in the wok. If safety is a concern, let the oil cool completely before handling.
- Combine and Cook: Reheat the wok and there served oil over medium-high heat. Stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook until it becomes fragrant – this should take about 30 seconds to a minute. Next, reintroduce the green beans to the wok, seasoning them with salt. Stir everything together to ensure the beans are evenly coated with the aromatic garlic infusion. Cook for an additional minute to meld the flavours harmoniously.
- Serve the Dish: Transfer the flavorful green beans onto the aserving plate. Enhance the visual and taste appeal with a garnish of red pepper flakes and a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds, if you like.
- Serving Suggestions: These vibrant and zesty green beans pair wonderfully with dishes like egg fried rice, chicken chow mein, or a plate of savory potstickers. It's a versatile side that brings a delightful crunch and flavor to your meal.
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