Print

Wok-Blistered Green Beans with Garlic Sauce

A close-up of vibrant green beans coated in a dark, savory garlic sauce, ready to serve.
Print Recipe
Save Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

Make restaurant-style Chinese green beans quickly using a hot wok or skillet to achieve a blistered texture, coated in a savory garlic soy sauce.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (high-heat oil recommended)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon toasted sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup water or vegetable broth
  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

Instructions

  1. Heat a wok or large skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the vegetable oil.
  2. Add the trimmed green beans to the hot wok in a single layer if possible. Stir-fry for 3 to 5 minutes, tossing frequently, until the beans begin to blister and char slightly. This is the dry-frying step.
  3. Push the beans to one side of the wok. Add the minced garlic and ginger to the cleared space and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Add the soy sauce, sugar, water (or broth), and red pepper flakes (if using) to the wok. Stir quickly to combine everything.
  5. Continue to cook for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce slightly and coat the beans evenly. The liquid should mostly evaporate.
  6. Remove from heat. Stir in the toasted sesame oil.
  7. Serve immediately as a chinese side dish.

Notes

  • For a spicier version, substitute the water with 1/4 cup of Sichuan chili oil or add dried Sichuan peppercorns during the garlic step.
  • If you do not have a wok, use the highest heat setting on your largest skillet to achieve the necessary char.
  • You can substitute tamari for soy sauce if you need a gluten-free option.
  • Pair these garlic green beans with fried rice or a simple stir-fry for a complete takeout-night dinner.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://miameal.com/chinese-green-beans-with-garlic-sauce/