Green beans are a staple in many cuisines around the world, and when you add a dash of heat, they become a flavor bomb just waiting to explode on your taste buds. In this article, we’re exploring the bold and spicy side of green bean recipes from across Asia, where the humble legume meets the fiery passion of local spices and seasonings.
From Szechuan dry-fried green beans to Thai basil stir-fries and Korean garlic-spiked delights, we’ve rounded up 18 mouth-watering recipes that will take your green bean game to the next level. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for some inspiration in the kitchen, these spicy green bean dishes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Stay tuned for the rest of our article, where we’ll dive into each of these incredible recipes and share the secrets to making them shine!
Szechuan Dry-Fried Green Beans
Experience the bold flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this simple and addictive recipe for dry-fried green beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns, toasted and ground
– 1 teaspoon cornstarch
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon white pepper
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they start to soften.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the ground Szechuan peppercorns, cornstarch, salt, and white pepper.
4. Pour the dry mixture into the wok or skillet with the green beans and stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the beans are tender and coated in the seasoning.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Thai Basil Green Bean Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry that combines the freshness of green beans, the aromatic taste of Thai basil, and a hint of spice. This dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or as an addition to your favorite takeout.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/2 teaspoon sriracha sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
3. Add the green beans; stir-fry for 4-5 minutes or until tender-crisp.
4. Stir in the Thai basil, soy sauce, and sriracha (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Korean Spicy Garlic Green Beans
A flavorful twist on classic green beans, this recipe combines the crunch of fresh green beans with the bold flavors of Korean chili flakes and aromatic garlic.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes, or until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, garlic, and Gochugaru.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the green bean mixture and toss to coat with the soy-honey-garlic-Gochugaru mixture.
4. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the green beans are tender-crisp and the flavors have melded together.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Vietnamese Green Bean and Pork Stir-Fry
A flavorful and spicy stir-fry that combines the freshness of green beans with the richness of pork, all wrapped up in a savory and aromatic Vietnamese-inspired sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pork shoulder or belly, sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the garlic and ginger to the pan and stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the green beans and cook until they start to soften, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the cooked pork back into the pan, along with the fish sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, and red pepper flakes. Stir-fry everything together for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chinese Green Beans with Minced Pork
This classic Sichuan dish combines crunchy green beans with savory minced pork, garlic, and ginger for a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound green beans, trimmed
– 1/4 cup minced pork
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-4 minutes until slightly tender.
2. Drain the green beans and set aside.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the minced pork, garlic, ginger, soy sauce, and salt.
4. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the pork mixture to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes until browned.
6. Add the green beans to the pan and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until combined with the pork.
7. Season with salt, pepper, and additional soy sauce if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Japanese Green Bean Gomaae
Discover the simplicity of this classic Japanese side dish, where green beans are elevated by a savory sauce and a hint of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 3-5 minutes, or until tender but still crisp.
2. Drain and rinse the green beans with cold water. Set aside.
3. In a small saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add grated ginger and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
4. Whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil in a bowl. Pour the sauce into the saucepan with the ginger and whisk to combine.
5. Add the blanched green beans to the saucepan and toss to coat with the sauce.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Malaysian Sambal Green Beans
Sambal green beans are a popular Malaysian dish that combines the sweetness of green beans with the spicy kick of sambal, a chili paste. This recipe is a simple and flavorful way to enjoy this beloved street food at home.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup sambal chili paste (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the green beans and cook until they start to soften, about 3 minutes.
4. Stir in the sambal chili paste, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
5. Continue cooking for another minute, or until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
6. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Indonesian Green Bean Curry
Indonesian Green Bean Curry Recipe
Summary:
This flavorful and aromatic curry is a popular dish in Indonesian cuisine, made with green beans, coconut milk, and a blend of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add green beans, cumin, turmeric, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5 minutes or until green beans are tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, soy sauce, and lime juice.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro (if using).
8. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Filipino Ginataang Sitaw with Green Beans
A classic Filipino dish that’s both flavorful and nutritious, ginataang sitaw is a popular vegetable stew cooked in coconut milk. This recipe adds a burst of green beans to the mix for an added crunch and taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup string beans (sitaw)
– 1 cup green beans
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 can coconut milk
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Patani leaves or spinach for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until the mixture is soft and fragrant.
3. Add string beans and green beans; cook until they start to soften.
4. Pour in coconut milk; season with salt and pepper.
5. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
6. Serve hot, garnished with patani leaves or spinach if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cambodian Green Bean Amok
A flavorful and aromatic Cambodian dish, Green Bean Amok is a popular recipe that combines green beans, coconut milk, and spices. This comforting vegetarian dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onions and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add green beans and stir-fry until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in coconut milk, fish sauce (if using), cumin, salt, and pepper.
6. Simmer for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
7. Serve hot over rice or with roti.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Singaporean Green Bean Sambal
A classic Singaporean condiment that adds a burst of flavor to any meal, this green bean sambal is a must-try. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking time, you’ll be enjoying this delicious accompaniment in no time.
Ingredients:
– 250g fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– 2-3 dried red chilies, crushed or 1-2 teaspoon sambal chili paste
– Salt and sugar to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic, onion, and green beans. Stir-fry until the vegetables are slightly softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the crushed red chilies or sambal chili paste. Stir-fry for another minute, allowing the flavors to meld together.
4. Season with salt and sugar to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Laotian Green Bean Larb
A classic Laotian dish, Larb is a flavorful and spicy salad made with green beans, herbs, chilies, and fermented soybeans. This recipe adds a twist by incorporating green beans for a refreshing and crunchy take on the traditional dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons fish sauce ( nam pla )
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro
– 1 tablespoon chopped mint leaves
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2-3 Thai chilies, seeded and minced
– 2 tablespoons fermented soybeans ( taukwa )
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mortar and pestle or bowl, combine green beans, fish sauce, lime juice, cilantro, mint, onion, chilies, and taukwa.
2. Pound the mixture with the pestle or use a spoon to mash it until the flavors are well combined and the green beans are slightly crushed.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Indian Green Bean Thoran
This flavorful and aromatic Indian-inspired dish is a perfect side dish or light meal, packed with the nutrients of green beans and the warmth of spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium onions, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
– 2 tablespoons coconut milk or yogurt
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onions and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and sauté for another minute.
4. Add green beans, cumin, turmeric, salt, and chili flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
5. Cook, covered, for 10-12 minutes or until green beans are tender.
6. Stir in coconut milk or yogurt.
7. Garnish with cilantro leaves.
8. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Bangladeshi Green Bean Bhaji
A flavorful and crunchy snack from Bangladesh, green bean bhaji is a popular street food that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. Here’s a simple recipe to get you started.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup fresh green beans, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1/4 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
1. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the green beans, garlic, cumin seeds, and coriander powder. Stir well to combine.
4. Fry for 5-6 minutes or until the green beans are tender and lightly browned.
5. Remove from heat and sprinkle with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Burmese Green Bean Salad
This refreshing salad is a popular Myanmar (Burma) dish that pairs crunchy green beans with tangy ingredients and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dried red chilies, crushed (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch green beans for 3-5 minutes or until slightly tender.
2. Drain and immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking. Let cool.
3. In a blender or food processor, combine soy sauce, lime juice, vegetable oil, onion, garlic, and cilantro. Blend until smooth.
4. Add the cooled green beans to the dressing mixture and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red chilies (if using).
6. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taiwanese Green Bean Omelette
A classic Taiwanese breakfast staple, this omelette is a delightful combination of tender green beans and creamy eggs. Whip up this easy recipe to start your day off right!
Ingredients:
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green beans (about 10-12)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon soy sauce, 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Beat the eggs in a bowl until well-mixed.
2. Heat the oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the edges start to set.
4. Add the chopped green beans on one half of the omelette.
5. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, then add soy sauce and sesame oil if using (optional).
6. Fold the other half of the omelette over the green beans.
7. Cook for another minute or until the eggs are almost set.
8. Flip the omelette and cook for 30 seconds more.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Hong Kong Style Green Beans with Fermented Tofu
This recipe combines the crisp sweetness of green beans with the savory depth of fermented tofu, a classic Cantonese flavor combination. Perfect as a side dish or added to your favorite stir-fry.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup fermented tofu (daikon), crumbled
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
3. Add the fermented tofu, garlic, soy sauce, and oyster sauce (if using). Stir-fry for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the green beans are tender but still crisp.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with sliced scallions or chili flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Chinese Green Bean and Egg Stir-Fry
This simple and flavorful stir-fry is a great way to enjoy the sweetness of green beans with the richness of eggs, all wrapped up in a savory soy sauce-based sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the green beans and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the green beans aside; crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix the garlic, ginger, soy sauce, salt, and pepper into the eggs.
5. Combine the eggs with the green beans; stir-fry for another minute.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your green bean game! This article brings you 18 Asian-inspired recipes that will take your taste buds on a thrilling ride. From Szechuan dry-fried green beans to Laotian green bean larb, each recipe showcases the unique flavors and techniques of its respective country. Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet and sour, spicy and savory, or nutty and aromatic, there’s a recipe here that will satisfy your cravings. So go ahead, explore the world of Asian cuisine through these delicious and easy-to-make green bean recipes!
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