Cracked green beans are a flavorful dish that combines green beans with a savory seasoning blend.
Here’s a simple recipe to prepare cracked green beans:
Cracked Green Beans Recipes
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Sesame seeds, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- Blanch the Green Beans:
Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Add the trimmed green beans and cook for 2-3 minutes, until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Drain and immediately transfer to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and pat dry with paper towels.
- Prepare the Seasoning:
In a small bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Mix well to combine.
- Cook the Green Beans:
Heat olive oil or vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the blanched green beans and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they start to blister and crackle.
- Add the Seasoning:
Pour the prepared seasoning mixture over the green beans in the skillet. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes, ensuring the green beans are evenly coated with the seasoning.
- Season and Garnish:
Season the cracked green beans with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle with sesame seeds for added flavor and garnish (optional).
- Serve Warm:
Transfer the cracked green beans to a serving dish and serve warm as a delicious side dish or a light meal.
Tips for Variation:
- Add Protein: Enhance the dish by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a more substantial meal.
- Vegetarian Option: Make it a vegetarian dish by omitting the soy sauce and using a vegetarian substitute or omitting it altogether.
- Crushed Nuts: For added texture, sprinkle crushed almonds, peanuts, or cashews over the cracked green beans before serving.
Conclusion:
Cracked green beans are a quick and flavorful dish that highlights the natural sweetness of fresh green beans with a savory seasoning blend. Enjoy this dish as a nutritious side or a light meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about Cracked Green Beans
Q: What are cracked green beans?
A: Cracked green beans are a dish where green beans are stir-fried until they blister and crackle, typically seasoned with garlic, soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes for a savory and slightly spicy flavor.
Q: How do you prepare green beans for cracking?
A: To prepare green beans for cracking, trim off the ends and blanch them in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and crisp-tender. Immediately transfer them to ice water to stop the cooking process, then drain and pat dry before stir-frying.
Q: Can cracked green beans be made ahead of time?
A: Yes, you can blanch the green beans ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. When ready to serve, stir-fry them with the seasoning mixture just before serving for the best texture and flavor.
Q: How spicy are cracked green beans?
A: The spiciness of cracked green beans can be adjusted by varying the amount of red pepper flakes added. Start with a small amount and increase according to your preference for heat.
Q: What should I serve with cracked green beans?
A: Cracked green beans are delicious served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, fish, or tofu. They also pair well with rice, quinoa, or noodles for a complete meal.
