This authentic Sichuan-style side dish transforms humble string beans into a complex, savory delicacy. The key is the “dry-frying” technique, which blisters and wrinkles the beans, concentrating their flavor and creating a delightful chewy texture. They are then tossed with aromatic ginger, garlic, ground pork, and a umami-rich combination of dried shrimp and preserved mustard greens. The result is a dish that is salty, slightly sweet, and deeply fragrant, pairing perfectly with steamed rice.
Sichuan Dry-Fried String Beans
Description
This authentic Sichuan-style side dish transforms humble string beans into a complex, savory delicacy. The key is the "dry-frying" technique, which blisters and wrinkles the beans, concentrating their flavor and creating a delightful chewy texture. They are then tossed with aromatic ginger, garlic, ground pork, and a umami-rich combination of dried shrimp and preserved mustard greens. The result is a dish that is salty, slightly sweet, and deeply fragrant, pairing perfectly with steamed rice.Ingredients
Directions
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Cover the dried shrimp with hot water and let soak for 30 minutes to soften.
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Drain the shrimp and chop them into a consistency similar to coarse bread crumbs.
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Rinse the preserved Sichuan mustard greens under cold water to remove excess brine and salt, then chop them to match the texture of the shrimp.
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Heat the peanut oil in a wok over medium-high heat until it reaches 375°F (190°C).
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Deep fry the string beans in two or three batches for 2 to 3 minutes, or until they appear wrinkled, blistered, and khaki in color. Do not overcook if you prefer some texture.
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Remove the fried beans from the wok and set aside. Drain all but 1 tablespoon of the oil from the wok.
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Reheat the wok over high heat. Add the minced ginger and garlic, stir-frying for about 15 seconds until fragrant.
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Add the ground pork, chopped preserved mustard greens, and chopped dried shrimp to the wok. Stir-fry for 1 minute, breaking up any clumps of pork so it resembles crumbles.
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Add the minced green onion, sugar, white pepper, and dark soy sauce. Toss everything together to blend the flavors.
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Return the fried green beans to the wok along with the chicken stock and sesame oil.
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Toss vigorously over high heat for 2 to 3 minutes, ensuring all liquids are reduced and absorbed by the beans.
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Serve hot or at room temperature.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 285kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 3g15%
- Cholesterol 35mg12%
- Sodium 550mg23%
- Total Carbohydrate 12g4%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 2g
- Protein 12g24%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.