This dish transforms simple green beans into a savory, textured delight through a technique known as “dry-frying.” The beans are cooked in oil until they develop a characteristic wrinkled skin and tender-crisp bite. Aromatics like minced garlic and fresh scallions are briefly fried to release their fragrance, then tossed with the beans. A touch of Szechuan chili paste adds a gentle heat, while soy sauce and a splash of sherry provide depth and umami. It is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles, offering a balance of crunch, spice, and savory richness.
Dry-Fried String Beans
Description
This dish transforms simple green beans into a savory, textured delight through a technique known as "dry-frying." The beans are cooked in oil until they develop a characteristic wrinkled skin and tender-crisp bite. Aromatics like minced garlic and fresh scallions are briefly fried to release their fragrance, then tossed with the beans. A touch of Szechuan chili paste adds a gentle heat, while soy sauce and a splash of sherry provide depth and umami. It is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with rice or noodles, offering a balance of crunch, spice, and savory richness.Ingredients
Directions
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Wash the string beans thoroughly under cold running water and trim the ends. Pat them completely dry with paper towels to ensure they fry properly.
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In a wok or large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat until it is very hot but not yet smoking.
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Carefully add the dried beans to the hot oil, standing back to avoid splattering. Cook, stirring frequently, until the beans are wrinkled, tender-crisp, and lightly browned, about 7 minutes.
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Remove the beans from the wok using a slotted spoon and place them in a colander to drain. Set aside.
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Pour out most of the oil from the wok, leaving only 2 tablespoons behind.
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Return the wok to high heat. Add the chopped scallions, garlic, and Szechuan chili paste. Stir-fry for about 20 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the soy sauce to the aromatics and stir briefly to combine.
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Return the fried beans to the wok. Add the dry sherry (or rice wine) and sugar.
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Toss everything together vigorously for about 1 minute until the beans are evenly coated and well-mixed.
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Remove from heat immediately and serve hot.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 586.7kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 60.4g93%
- Saturated Fat 9.0g45%
- Cholesterol 0.0mg0%
- Sodium 24.8mg2%
- Total Carbohydrate 12.6g5%
- Dietary Fiber 4.8g20%
- Sugars 5.7g
- Protein 3.2g7%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.