Introduction
Japanese-Style Sesame Green Beans are a delicious and healthy side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of meals. This dish features crisp green beans sautéed in a savory sesame sauce, topped with toasted sesame seeds for extra flavor and texture. It’s easy to prepare and brings a burst of color and taste to your dining table. Whether you’re serving it with rice, grilled meats, or as part of a bento box, these sesame green beans are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 1 pound green beans (trimmed)
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sugar
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (toasted)
- 1 teaspoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 1 green onion (sliced, for garnish)
Preparing the Dish
Step 1: Prepare the Green Beans
- Wash and trim the green beans, cutting off the ends.
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans for about 2-3 minutes until they are bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and immediately plunge them into ice water to stop the cooking process. This helps maintain their vibrant color.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
- In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Step 3: Cook the Green Beans
- Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and toss them with the garlic for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
Step 4: Make the Sauce
- In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, and sugar until well combined.
- Pour the sauce over the green beans and toss to coat them evenly.
Step 5: Finish with Sesame Seeds
- Sprinkle the toasted sesame seeds over the green beans and toss again.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
- Garnish with additional sesame seeds and sliced green onions for a pop of color and flavor.
Serving Suggestions
Step 1: Pair with Rice
Serve the sesame green beans alongside steamed rice or as part of a larger Japanese meal.
Step 2: Add to a Bento Box
These green beans make a great addition to a bento box, paired with other dishes like teriyaki chicken or sushi.
Conclusion
Japanese-Style Sesame Green Beans are a simple yet flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. With their crunchy texture and savory sesame flavor, these green beans are not only easy to make but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy this vibrant dish as part of your next dinner and experience the delightful taste of Japanese cuisine!