Get ready to transform the humble green bean into a mouthwatering sensation that will have everyone at your dinner table begging for seconds! This Asian-inspired Sweet Chili Green Beans recipe is not just a side dish – it's a flavor-packed journey that combines crisp, vibrant vegetables with a tantalizing sweet and savory sauce that will elevate your culinary game in just 20 minutes.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Asian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Wash the green beans thoroughly under cold running water and trim off the tough ends using a sharp knife.
- Fill a large pot with water and bring to a rolling boil. Add a pinch of salt to the water if desired.
- Prepare an ice bath by filling a large bowl with cold water and ice cubes to shock the green beans after blanching.
- Carefully add the trimmed green beans to the boiling water and blanch for 2-3 minutes until they become bright green and slightly tender but still crisp.
- Using tongs or a slotted spoon, immediately transfer the blanched green beans to the ice bath to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and crispness.
- In a small mixing bowl, whisk together sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, sesame oil, and minced garlic to create the sauce.
- Drain the green beans completely and pat them dry with clean kitchen towels or paper towels.
- Heat a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the green beans.
- Pour the prepared sauce over the green beans and toss quickly to coat evenly, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving platter.
- Sprinkle sesame seeds over the top for garnish if desired.
- Serve immediately while hot and enjoy the sweet and savory flavors of the dish.
Tips
- Blanching is Key: The secret to perfectly crisp green beans is the blanching technique. Make sure to have your ice bath ready before boiling to stop the cooking process and maintain that gorgeous bright green color.
- High Heat, Quick Cooking: When stir-frying the beans with the sauce, use medium-high heat and toss quickly to ensure even coating and prevent burning.
- Fresh is Best: Choose fresh, firm green beans with a bright green color and no blemishes for the best texture and flavor.
- Customize Your Spice: Adjust the sweet chili sauce quantity to control the heat level – add more for extra kick or less for a milder flavor.
- Sesame Seeds Matter: Toast the sesame seeds lightly before garnishing to enhance their nutty flavor and add an extra layer of complexity to the dish.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 66kcal
Carbohydrates: 9g
Protein: 1g
Fat: 4g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg
