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Szechuan cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors, vibrant colors, and unique combination of spicy and savory elements. Originating from the Szechuan province in southwestern China, this culinary tradition features a plethora of ingredients and techniques that tantalize the taste buds and excite the senses. The hallmark of Szechuan fare lies in the use of aromatic spices and chilies that create a symphony of flavors, making every dish a memorable experience. One such dish that exemplifies the essence of Szechuan cooking is the Fiery Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry, a vibrant and spicy stir-fry that is perfect for any occasion, whether it's a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering.

Fiery Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry

Discover the vibrant flavors of Szechuan cuisine with this Fiery Szechuan Green Bean Stir-Fry. This dish brings together the crisp freshness of green beans with bold spices and aromatics for a delightful culinary adventure. Packed with vitamins and minerals, it's not just delicious but nutritious, making it perfect for any meal. Quick to prepare in under 30 minutes, this stir-fry is a fantastic way to add excitement and health to your dining table. Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, sweet, and savory flavors!

Ingredients
  

1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed and rinsed

2 tablespoons vegetable oil

4 cloves garlic, finely minced

1-inch piece fresh ginger, peeled and minced

1 tablespoon Szechuan peppercorns

2-3 dried red chilies, whole (adjust based on your heat preference)

1/4 cup soy sauce

1 tablespoon rice vinegar

1 tablespoon chili oil (adjust for spice level)

1 tablespoon hoisin sauce

1 teaspoon sugar

2 green onions, finely chopped (for garnish)

Sesame seeds, toasted (for garnish)

Instructions
 

Prepare the Green Beans: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and let them blanch in the boiling water for 2 minutes. Once done, promptly transfer them to a bowl filled with ice water to immediately halt the cooking process. After 2-3 minutes, drain the green beans and set them aside to ensure they retain their vibrant color and crispness.

    Heat the Oil: In a spacious wok or a deep skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it's shimmering, indicating that it is ready for stir-frying.

      Add Aromatics: When the oil is hot, carefully add the minced garlic and ginger into the wok. Stir-fry for approximately 30 seconds, allowing the delightful aromas to fill the air, while being cautious to not let them burn.

        Incorporate Spices: Add the Szechuan peppercorns and whole dried red chilies to the wok. Stir-fry for an additional minute, allowing these ingredients to release their fragrant oils and infuse the dish with fantastic flavor.

          Add Green Beans: Introduce the blanched green beans back into the wok. Stir-fry them for around 3-4 minutes, ensuring they are heated through and begin to blister slightly, which intensifies their natural sweetness.

            Make the Sauce: In a small mixing bowl, combine the soy sauce, rice vinegar, chili oil, hoisin sauce, and sugar. Mix thoroughly until well blended, then pour this flavorful sauce over the stir-fried green beans in the wok. Toss everything together to ensure the green beans are evenly coated with the sauce.

              Cook to Perfection: Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the green beans to soak up the sauce and ensuring they are heated thoroughly and evenly.

                Garnish and Serve: Remove the wok from heat and garnish the stir-fry with the chopped green onions and a sprinkling of toasted sesame seeds for an added crunch and flavor. Serve hot as a delicious side dish or over a bed of fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: To enhance presentation, serve the stir-fry in a vibrant dish, allowing the bright greens to pop against the plate. Consider adding a few extra sesame seeds on top for a visually appealing finish.