Chinese Garlic Green Beans

Yield

4 servings · 1 lb garlic green beans

Cook time

7–10 minutes

Ingredients

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
• 2–3 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 5 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

Method

1. Wash the green beans, trim the ends, and dry thoroughly with paper towels.
2. Heat 2 tablespoons vegetable oil in a 12-inch skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add the green beans and stir-fry for 5–7 minutes, stirring frequently, until bright green, slightly blistered, and tender-crisp. Cook in batches if needed.
4. Transfer the green beans to a plate.
5. Reduce the heat to medium. Add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil if the skillet looks dry.
6. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
7. Return the green beans to the skillet.
8. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sugar. Toss for 1–2 minutes until the beans are evenly coated and cooked to your preferred tenderness.
9. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
10. Drizzle with sesame oil and toss gently.
11. Transfer to a serving dish and serve hot.

Kitchen notes

Timing guide:
Cook time: 7–10 minutes

Practical Woman's Secret
Dry the green beans completely before stir-frying. Excess moisture causes steaming instead of blistering, preventing the lightly wrinkled texture that makes this dish delicious.