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Chinese Style Garlic Green Beans

Servings: 4 people
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 14 minutes

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.