Din Tai Fung Inspired Garlic Green Beans

One of my favorite ways to relax and enjoy delicious meals with friends or family is going to restaurants and trying different flavors. We absolutely love Din Tai Fung, Taiwanese cuisine, where it feels like every dish is crafted to perfection. Something so simple like garlic green beans take on a whole different light —crisp, flavorful, and just the right amount of savory. 

Inspired by that unforgettable dish, I wanted to recreate the experience at home and enjoy the same amazing flavors while staying healthy. This recipe brings a little taste of Din Tai Fung right to our kitchen, allowing us to enjoy the best of both worlds.

Here’s a simple and delicious Asian-inspired garlic green beans recipe that’s full of flavor!

Asian-Inspired Garlic Green Beans

Ingredients:

• 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (or sesame oil for added flavor)

• 4-5 garlic cloves, minced

• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, minced (optional for extra zing)

• 2 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)

• 1 tbsp oyster sauce (or use mushroom-based vegetarian oyster sauce for a vegetarian version)

• 1 tsp rice vinegar

• 1 tsp sesame oil

• 1 tbsp honey or brown sugar

• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

• 1 tbsp toasted sesame seeds

• 2 green onions, thinly sliced (for garnish)

• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Blanch the Green Beans:

• Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 3-4 minutes, until just tender but still bright green.

• Immediately transfer the beans to a bowl of ice water to stop the cooking process. Drain well and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce:

• In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, honey, and red pepper flakes (if using). Set aside.

3. Cook the Garlic and Ginger:

• Heat the vegetable oil (or sesame oil) in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.

• Add the minced garlic (and ginger, if using) to the pan and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

4. Sauté the Green Beans:

• Add the blanched green beans to the pan and stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes, making sure they are well coated in the garlic and oil.

5. Add the Sauce:

• Pour the prepared sauce over the green beans and stir well, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the beans are coated and heated through.

6. Finish and Serve:

• Sprinkle the beans with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for garnish.

• Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, or more soy sauce if desired.

7. Enjoy!:

   • Serve the garlic green beans hot as a side dish with your favorite Asian-inspired meal. They pair great with rice, noodles, or as a side to grilled meats or tofu.

This dish is quick, flavorful, and has just the right amount of savory, sweet, and garlicky kick. Enjoy!