dry stir-fry green beans

How to Make Dry-Braised Green Beans: A Complete Guide

Dry-braised green beans (干煸四季豆) is a beloved Sichuan dish, prized for its crispy-tender texture and bold, savory flavor. Here’s a simple yet authentic recipe to recreate it at home.

Ingredients: 500g fresh green beans, 50g ground pork (optional), 3-4 dried chilies, 2 cloves garlic (minced), 1 tbsp ginger (minced), 2 tbsp cooking oil, 1 tbsp light soy sauce, 1 tsp dark soy sauce, 1 tsp sugar, and a pinch of salt.

Steps:

1. Prep the Beans: Trim the ends of the green beans and snap into 3-4 inch pieces. Blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened, then drain and pat dry completely (this ensures crispiness later).

2. Stark-Fry the Beans: Heat oil in a wok over medium-high heat. Add the green beans and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes until their skin wrinkles and they turn golden brown. Remove and set aside.

3. Cook the Aromatics: In the same wok, add a little more oil if needed. Sauté dried chilies, garlic, and ginger until fragrant (about 30 seconds). If using, add ground pork and cook until browned.

4. Combine and Season: Return the beans to the wok. Pour in light and dark soy sauce, sugar, and salt. Stir-fry for 1-2 minutes, ensuring everything is evenly coated. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Serving Tip: Garnish with sesame seeds or a drizzle of chili oil for extra heat. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice! Enjoy the perfect balance of spicy, savory, and crunchy flavors in every bite.