Ingredients
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1 1/2 lbs fresh green beans, ends trimmed
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2 tablespoons chopped fresh garlic (or to taste)
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1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional or adjust to taste)
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1 1/2 tablespoons sesame oil
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3 tablespoons soy sauce
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1 1/2 tablespoons rice vinegar
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1 tablespoon brown sugar, packed (can use a little more if desired)
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black pepper
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salt
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cornstarch (mixed with cold water to thicken sauce)
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sliced almonds or sesame seeds
Instructions
- Cook the green beans in a pot of boiling salted water until JUST crisp-tender (about 3 minutes) plunge into an ice water bath to cool completely.
- Drain well and pat the beans dry using paper towels.
- Heat sesame oil in a wok or large skillet over high heat; add in garlic and chili flakes (if using) stir-fry 1 minute.
- Add in beans and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
- Add in soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar and black pepper; cook until the sauce reduces slightly and coats the beans (about 1-1/2-2 minutes longer).
- If you want a thick sauce mix a small amount of cornstarch with a small amount of cold water and add in towards the end.
- Add in the almonds or sesame seeds; toss to coat and transfer to a bowl.