These stir-fry sesame green beans are one of my frequent go-to sides. Using frozen green beans means that the prep is non-existent. If you've got some left over rice and don't know what to pair with it, there's often times nothing better than a crunchy, tangy green bean.
Perfect for those ‘I just need something tasty and cheap, stat!’ moments when your wallet is as empty as your energy tank. You'll be making these repeatedly, I promise.
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What Can I Pair These Tasty Beans With?
I mean, you can eat the beans by themselves if you want to, I won't stop you, however here's some ideas just in case:
- A bowl of rice.
- Along side my easy pan-fried tofu.
- Or even air-fried tofu.
- With some vegan meatloaf.
Recipe
Bean There, Stir Fried That: Vegan Sesame Green Beans
Equipment
- 1 saute pan
Ingredients
- 1 12oz bag frozen green beans can use fresh
- 1 Tablespoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- pinch of salt to taste
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
Instructions
- Add the green beans to a pan. If using fresh, add a small bit of oil. Cook on medium high heat for about 5 minutes.
- Add in all seasonings; salt, sugar, garlic powder, rice vinegar and mix well. Cook for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Then turn off the heat and add sesame oil. Stir around the beans and serve!
Notes
- For some extra flavor, try getting a sear on the green beans using high heat for about 2-3 minutes. A little extra char really does wonders.
- You may omit or use less sugar if desired.
- Storage - Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days, do not freeze, and reheat either by microwave, or by stove top and re-stir-frying.
Nutrition
How Should I Store These Green Beans For Later?
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days.
Freezer: I do not recommend freezing this recipe after it has been cooked.
Reheat: These green beans can be reheated in the microwave, or by re-stir frying for a few minutes on the stove.
What Ingredients Will I Need?
Ingredient Notes And Substitutions
- Use fresh green beans, instead! They will require more work, though.
- Garlic powder is optional, but why would you not?
- And of course, if you like spice, throw some sriracha on them!
Please see the recipe card for exact quantities.
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Step-By-Step Instructions
Step 1 - Dump the beans into a non-stick pan set to medium-high heat. You shouldn't need any oil, the water content from the frozen beans should help.
Note - if you're using fresh green beans, you may need to add a bit of water, or non-sesame oil to your pan so that you can get a sear on the beans.
Step 2 - Add in everything except the sesame oil and mix it all around while still frying.
Step 3 - Add in all the rest of the ingredients and mix together well!
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EXTRA TIPS FOR SUCCESS
I highly recommend also adding MSG to these beans. I kept it out of this recipe, but I normally do add it.
Afraid of MSG? There's no need to be! It's actually a natural umami flavor and the bad education around it was born out of racism. MSG is naturally occurring in many of the foods you already enjoy, like mushrooms and tomatoes.
Check out some of my other delicious vegan side dishes
Frequently Asked Questions
Nope! If using fresh green beans, just give them a nice rinse to wash off any dirt or bugs and then throw them directly into the pan. They may take a bit longer to cook. If using frozen, you just put them directly into the pan as is.
What's up! My name is Bree, and I run this kitchen! I love sharing my recipes with you and I hope you enjoy them. You can follow me on Pinterest, or Get to know more about me and this site if you'd like. Thanks, bud!
This recipe was first published in July 2022, and has been updated August 2024
Nathan
Would love to see a take on a green bean casserole dish. This is fantastic as well
Bree
Hi Nathan, I plan to have a green bean casserole out this year in time for Thanksgiving so definitely be on the lookout for that =). Also, thank you so much, it's my favorite way to have these beans!