A quick and flavorful side dish featuring tender green beans sautéed with garlic, chili, and a savory sesame sauce.
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and blanch the green beans until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
Blanching helps to preserve the vibrant color and crisp texture of the green beans.
Drain the green beans and immediately transfer them to an ice water bath to stop the cooking process.
This step ensures the beans remain crisp and retain their bright color.
Heat sesame oil in a skillet over medium-high heat, then add the garlic and red pepper flakes, sautéing until fragrant.
Be careful not to burn the garlic as it can turn bitter.
Add the blanched green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for a few minutes until heated through.
Stir constantly to ensure even cooking.
In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, black pepper, and salt, then pour over the beans.
Adjust the seasoning to taste before adding to the skillet.
If a thicker sauce is desired, dissolve the cornstarch in a small amount of water and stir into the skillet, cooking until the sauce thickens.
Ensure the cornstarch is fully dissolved in water to avoid lumps.
Sprinkle the sesame seeds over the beans, toss to combine, and transfer to a serving dish.
Toasting the sesame seeds enhances their nutty flavor.
Serve the green beans warm as a delicious side dish.
Garnish with additional sesame seeds or a drizzle of sesame oil for extra flavor.