Forget bland, overcooked green beans! This recipe transforms humble green beans into a vibrant and flavorful Chinese side dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or a special occasion. The secret lies in a quick stir-fry technique that preserves the beans' crisp-tender texture while infusing them with a delicious savory-sweet sauce. Imagine the satisfying crunch of perfectly cooked green beans, coated in a glossy sauce that's both subtly spicy and intensely aromatic. This recipe uses readily available ingredients, making it accessible to home cooks of all levels.
Beyond the simple ingredients, the key to success lies in mastering a few essential techniques. From properly prepping the green beans to achieving the perfect stir-fry, this recipe guides you every step of the way. Ready to unlock the delicious potential of green beans? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions!
Tools Needed
- Wok (or large frying pan)
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Garlic press
- Bowl
Ingredients
- Green beans: 1 pound
- Pork belly (or ground pork): 4 ounces
- Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon
- Soy sauce: 2 teaspoons
- Salt: a pinch
- Ginger: 2 teaspoons (grated)
- Garlic: 2 cloves
- Chili (or chili flakes): 2
- Vegetable oil: 2 tablespoons + 1 tablespoon
- Water: a few tablespoons
- Sugar: 1/4 teaspoon
- Shaoxing wine: 1 teaspoon
- Sesame seed oil: 1/2 teaspoon
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Prepare Ingredients
- Chop pork belly roughly. In a bowl, marinate with cornstarch, soy sauce, and salt.
- Snap off the ends of the beans and cut them into 2-3 inch lengths.
- Peel and grate ginger. Mince garlic using a garlic press.
Step 2. Stir-fry and Steam Green Beans
- Heat wok or large frying pan over high heat. Add 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil.
- Add green beans to the hot wok and stir-fry until slightly charred. Add a couple of tablespoons of water, cover, and steam for about 5 minutes, or until tender.
Step 3. Cook Pork and Aromatics
- Add the marinated pork to the wok and cook until done. Move pork to the side of the wok.
- Add 1 tablespoon of oil, ginger, garlic, and chilies to the wok and stir-fry for about a minute.
Step 4. Combine and Serve
- Add the cooked green beans back to the wok. Stir in sugar, soy sauce, Shaoxing wine, and sesame seed oil. Turn off the heat.
- Serve immediately.
Read more: Authentic Cantonese Beef Stew: A Step-by-Step Guide
Tips
- If you don't have a wok, a large frying pan will work.
- Adjust the amount of chili to your preferred spice level.
- For extra spiciness, break open the chilies and include the seeds.
- The cooking process is fast, so have all ingredients prepped and ready.
Nutrition
- N/A
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, but thaw them completely and pat them dry before stir-frying to prevent excess moisture.
2. What can I substitute for soy sauce?
Tamari or coconut aminos are good gluten-free alternatives. For a slightly different flavor, try low-sodium Worcestershire sauce.
3. How do I prevent the green beans from becoming mushy?
Don't overcrowd the pan, ensure high heat, and stir-fry quickly. Overcooking is the main culprit.
This simple yet flavorful Chinese stir-fried green beans recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. With its quick cooking time and delicious results, it's a perfect addition to any meal. Enjoy this upgraded take on a classic vegetable side dish!