This classic Sichuan dish transforms simple green beans into a vibrant, addictive side dish. The beans are deep-fried or pan-fried until blistered and tender-crisp, then tossed in a savory sauce infused with aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, and a kick of chili. The result is a perfect balance of textures: crunchy yet yielding, with a savory depth that complements rice or main courses beautifully. It’s a quick, flavorful way to elevate vegetables, bringing restaurant-quality heat and umami to your home kitchen. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as part of a larger Chinese feast, this recipe is easy to prepare using pantry staples.
Sichuan Green Beans
Description
This classic Sichuan dish transforms simple green beans into a vibrant, addictive side dish. The beans are deep-fried or pan-fried until blistered and tender-crisp, then tossed in a savory sauce infused with aromatic garlic, fresh ginger, and a kick of chili. The result is a perfect balance of textures: crunchy yet yielding, with a savory depth that complements rice or main courses beautifully. It&# 226;ÂÂs a quick, flavorful way to elevate vegetables, bringing restaurant-quality heat and umami to your home kitchen. Ideal for weeknight dinners or as part of a larger Chinese feast, this recipe is easy to prepare using pantry staples.Ingredients
Directions
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Trim the ends off the green beans and cut them into 2-inch pieces. Pat them dry thoroughly with a paper towel.
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Heat the peanut oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
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Add the green beans to the hot oil. Stir-fry or toss continuously for 5-7 minutes until the beans are blistered, slightly wrinkled, and tender-crisp. Remove beans from the pan and set aside.
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Reduce heat to medium. Add the minced garlic, ginger, and white parts of the scallions to the same pan. Stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
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If using, add the dried red chili flakes and stir for another 10 seconds.
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Return the green beans to the pan. Add the soy sauce, sugar, and water.
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Toss everything together over high heat for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the beans evenly.
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Remove from heat. Garnish with the green parts of the scallions. Serve immediately.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 35.2kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 0.2g1%
- Saturated Fat 0.0g0%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 6.8mg1%
- Total Carbohydrate 7.9g3%
- Dietary Fiber 3.1g13%
- Sugars 3.7g
- Protein 2.0g4%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
For extra crispy beans, you can deep fry them in 2 inches of oil for 2-3 minutes before stir-frying with the aromatics.
Adjust the amount of chili flakes to suit your heat preference. Sichuan peppercorns can be added for a traditional numbing sensation.
Ensure the green beans are completely dry before frying to prevent oil splattering and to achieve better browning.
This dish is best served fresh and hot. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in a skillet.
