Spicy Szechuan Green Beans

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
• 1/4 cup minced garlic
• 1/4 cup minced ginger
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1/4 cup Szechuan peppercorns
• 1/4 cup dried chili flakes
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 1/4 teaspoon sugar
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro

Preparation Time:

15 minutes

Cooking Time:

10-12 minutes

Difficulty Level:

2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add Szechuan peppercorns and dried chili flakes and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, or until fragrant.
3. Add garlic and ginger and stir-fry for an additional minute.
4. Add green beans and stir-fry for 4-5 minutes, or until they begin to turn bright green.
5. Season with soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, sugar, and salt and pepper to taste.
6. Continue stir-frying for another 5-7 minutes, or until green beans are tender and slightly charred.
7. Garnish with chopped cilantro.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 150 per serving
• Fat: 7 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams
• Protein: 5 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Spicy and flavorful
• Crunchy green beans
• Aromatic and tangy
• Easy to prepare
• Perfect for a side dish or appetizer

User Comments:

• "These green beans are addictive! The perfect balance of spice and tanginess." - Sarah
• "I love the charred bits on the green beans. It gives them a great smoky flavor." - John
• "I served these green beans with my Szechuan chicken and they were a huge hit!" - Amy

Special Precautions and Tips:

• If you don't have Szechuan peppercorns, you can substitute with black peppercorns.
• Be careful not to overcook the green beans, as they will become soggy.
• Serve the green beans hot for the best flavor.