If you’re looking to spice up your vegan meals, Sichuan Style Stir-Fried Chinese Long Beans are a perfect choice! This dish features crispy long beans stir-fried with aromatic spices and a bold, flavorful sauce. It’s an excellent addition to any meal, whether you’re a vegan or just exploring more plant-based options. Easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, this recipe is a must-try for those who love vibrant and spicy dishes.
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) Chinese long beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp ginger, minced
- 3-4 dried red chilies, broken into pieces
- 1 tbsp Sichuan peppercorns
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp hoisin sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp sesame oil
- 2 scallions, chopped
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
Directions:
Prepare the Ingredients:
- Rinse and trim the long beans, then cut them into 2-inch pieces.
- Mince the garlic and ginger, and break the dried red chilies into smaller pieces.
Make the Sauce: 3. In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, hoisin sauce, sugar, and sesame oil. Set aside.
Cook the Beans: 4. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
- Add the Sichuan peppercorns and dried red chilies, stirring until they become fragrant (about 1-2 minutes). Be careful not to burn them.
- Add the minced garlic and ginger, stir-frying for another minute until aromatic.
Stir-Fry the Beans: 7. Add the long beans to the skillet, stirring frequently. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the beans are tender-crisp and slightly charred.
- Pour in the prepared sauce, stirring to coat the beans evenly. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the sauce thickens and the beans are fully cooked.
Finish and Serve: 9. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped scallions.
- Transfer the beans to a serving dish and sprinkle with sesame seeds if desired.
- Serve hot as a side dish or over steamed rice for a complete meal.
Nutritional Information:
Chinese Long Beans:
- Rich in vitamins A and C, folate, and dietary fiber, promoting immune health and digestion.
Garlic and Ginger:
- Both are known for their anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, enhancing the dish’s health benefits.
Sichuan Peppercorns:
- Adds a unique numbing spiciness and are known for their digestive benefits.
Tips and Variations:
Adjust the Heat:
- For a milder dish, reduce the number of dried red chilies or remove the seeds.
Protein Boost:
- Add tofu or tempeh for extra protein. Stir-fry them separately and add them back in with the sauce.
Vegetable Variety:
- Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or snap peas for added color and nutrition.
Garnish Ideas:
- Garnish with fresh cilantro or crushed peanuts for added texture and flavor.
Serving Suggestions:
Main Course:
- Serve over steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a hearty main course.
Side Dish:
- Pair with other Sichuan dishes like Mapo Tofu or Dan Dan Noodles for a flavorful feast.
Appetizer:
- Serve as an appetizer or part of a multi-course meal to introduce guests to the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine.
Cooking Tips:
High Heat Cooking:
- Stir-fry on high heat to quickly cook the beans while keeping them crisp.
Proper Preparation:
- Have all ingredients prepped and ready to go before you start cooking, as stir-frying is a fast process.
Even Cooking:
- Cut the beans evenly to ensure they cook at the same rate.
Experience the bold and vibrant flavors of Sichuan cuisine with this easy and delicious stir-fried long beans recipe. Perfect for spicing up your meal routine, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Enjoy!