Ingredients:

  • 1 pound (450g) fresh green beans, trimmed
  • 2 tablespoons (30ml) vegetable oil (or canola oil)
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) soy sauce (low-sodium preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon (15ml) oyster sauce (optional, but adds depth of flavor)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) rice vinegar (or white vinegar)
  • 1 teaspoon (5ml) granulated sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon (2.5ml) sesame oil
  • 1/4 cup (60ml) water
  • 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
  • Optional: Toasted sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Wash and trim the green beans. Cut them in half if they are very long.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sugar, sesame oil, water, and cornstarch.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the minced garlic and stir-fry for about 30 seconds, until fragrant, but don't let it burn!
  4. Add the green beans to the wok and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until they are tender-crisp and bright green. Stir frequently to prevent sticking.
  5. Pour the sauce over the green beans and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the sauce thickens and coats the beans evenly.
  6. Transfer the green beans to a serving dish. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds (if desired). Serve immediately.