These green beans are rich and savory with a hint of smokiness from the char of pan-frying the complex flavors of soy, sesame and maple, and the warmth of toasted pecans. Not to mention, this side dish is vegan-friendly and adds a delicious Asian flair to your holiday feast.
Ingredients
1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon soy sauce
2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil
2 teaspoons pure maple syrup
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (or any high-heat oil you like)
12 ounces trimmed fresh green beans
1/2 cup pecan pieces – Pecan Pieces
Preparation
In a small bowl, stir the soy sauce, sesame oil, and maple syrup.
In a large microwave-safe bowl, combine the fresh green beans and ¼ cup of water. Cover with plastic wrap and microwave until the beans are just tender, about 5 minutes. Drain and pat them dry with a paper towel.
In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until very hot (a drop of water should sizzle when it hits the pan). Add the green beans and cook, without stirring, until charred on one side, about 3 minutes. Stir and continue cooking until beans are charred all over, about 3 more minutes.
Remove the skillet from heat and add the sauce mixture and pecans, tossing repeatedly to coat.
