Gan Bian Dou Jiao Recipe (Dry-Fried Sichuan Haricot Beans)
Description:
Gan Bian Dou Jiao (Dry-Fried Sichuan Haricot Beans) is a delightful dish that features long green beans tossed with a rich blend of soy sauce, honey, and a hint of ginger and garlic. This flavorful stir-fry is a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy, coated with a tangy Sichuan sauce that makes the beans both bright and light. The dish is an ideal appetizer, bringing a burst of flavor in every bite, and a must-try for fans of Sichuan cuisine.
Cuisine: Sichuan
Course: Appetizer
Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Green Beans (French Beans) | 400 grams, trimmed and halved |
| Red Chilli Sauce | 2 teaspoons |
| Garlic | 4 cloves, finely chopped |
| Ginger | 2-inch piece, finely chopped |
| Spring Onion Greens | 3 stalks, finely chopped |
| Honey | 1 tablespoon |
| Soy Sauce | 1 teaspoon |
| Salt | To taste |
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Instructions:
-
Prepare the Green Beans:
Begin by preparing all the ingredients. Steam the green beans with a pinch of salt on high heat for about 5 minutes. The beans should be tender yet still crunchy. Once done, drain the beans under cold water to stop the cooking process and preserve their vibrant color and texture. -
Sauté Aromatics:
In a heavy-bottomed pan, heat oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped ginger, garlic, and spring onion greens to the pan. Sauté for a few minutes until the aromas are released and the mixture becomes fragrant. -
Flavor the Beans:
Next, add the honey, soy sauce, red chilli sauce, and salt to the pan. Stir well to combine the flavors. Once the sauce is well mixed, add the steamed green beans to the pan. Toss the beans in the sauce on high heat, ensuring they are evenly coated with the aromatic mixture. -
Adjust Seasoning:
Taste and adjust the seasoning as necessary, adding more salt or soy sauce to suit your preference. -
Serve:
Once the beans are well-coated with the Sichuan sauce and have absorbed all the flavors, turn off the heat. Serve the dry-fried Sichuan green beans immediately. They make an excellent appetizer or side dish when paired with Chinese Sichuan fried rice or a plate of Chinese Vegetable Fried Rice for a complete meal.
Tips:
- Texture Matters: Be sure to steam the green beans just until they are al dente to maintain a nice crunch in the final dish.
- Customize the Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red chili sauce according to your spice preference. Add more for a fiery kick or reduce it for a milder version.
- Serve Hot: This dish is best enjoyed immediately after preparation when the beans are hot and the sauce is at its most flavorful.
This dry-fried Sichuan haricot bean dish is a crowd-pleaser that brings together the perfect balance of heat, sweetness, and savory umami, making it a great addition to any Sichuan-inspired menu.
