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Chinese Garlic Green Beans

Toss those takeout menus and whip up a DIY recipe for Chinese Garlic Green Beans inspired by a popular dish at one of my all-time favorite restaurants, Din Tai Fung.
5 from 2 votes
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 8 minutes
Total Time 18 minutes
Servings 4 servings

Ingredients  

  • 1/2 cup plus 1 Tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 1/2 pounds fresh green beans, trimmed and dried completely 
  • 2 Tablespoons minced garlic 
  • 1 1/2 teaspoons mushroom or vegetable bouillon 
  • 1 teaspoon low-sodium soy sauce

Instructions 

  • Line a baking sheet with paper towels. 
  • Add the oil to a large skillet or wok set over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot (See Kelly’s Notes), fry the green beans in batches, tossing frequently, just until they begin to wrinkle, about 2 minutes. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked beans to the baking sheet and repeat the frying process with the remaining green beans, returning the oil to the correct temperature in between each batch. 
  • Carefully pour the hot oil our of the skillet into a large bowl and let it cool completely before discarding.
  • In a small bowl, whisk together the mushroom bouillon with 2 tablespoons hot water and the soy sauce until combined. Set the mixture aside. 
  • Return the skillet to medium-high heat and add 1 tablespoon vegetable oil along with the garlic and mushroom bouillon mixture. Stir constantly for 1 minute then return the green beans to the skillet and toss to combine. Serve warm. 

Kelly’s Notes:

  • To test if the oil is hot enough, dip the tip of one green bean into it. It should bubble vigorously right away.
  • The easiest way to discard used vegetable oil is to let it cool completely then transfer it either into an empty bottle (with a lid) or a sealable plastic bag, both of which can then be discarded in the trash without fear of leaking.
  • Do not overcook the green beans during the pan-frying process. The beans will soften as they rest on the baking sheet.
  • Toasted sesame seeds are an optional garnish.
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