Japanese Style Sesame Green Beans

Name: Japanese Style Sesame Green Beans
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Japanese
Ingredients: 500 g green beans (trimmed); 2 tbsp soy sauce (reduced sodium); 1 tbsp sesame oil; 1 tbsp sesame seeds (toasted); 1 clove garlic (minced); 1 tsp sugar

20 min 4 servings Easy

All Recipes

Discover the delightful taste of Japanese style sesame green beans, a simple yet flavourful side dish that pairs well with any meal.

Prep

10 min

Cook

10 min

Total

20 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Japanese style sesame green beans are an exquisite side dish that perfectly complements a variety of meals. This dish is all about simplicity and flavour, bringing out the natural sweetness of green beans with the nutty richness of toasted sesame seeds. This version of sesame green beans is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or as part of a larger Japanese feast. The use of soy sauce and sesame oil adds a depth of umami that is both satisfying and subtly complex. Whether you're an avid fan of Japanese cuisine or just looking to try something new, this recipe is a delightful addition to your culinary repertoire.

Instructions

Prepare the green beans

Wash and trim the green beans. Remove the ends and any tough strings.

Blanch the green beans

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and blanch for 3-4 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp.

Pro tip: To retain the green colour, immediately transfer the beans to an ice bath after blanching.

Toast the sesame seeds

In a small dry skillet over medium heat, toast sesame seeds until golden brown, about 2-3 minutes. Stir frequently to avoid burning.

Prepare the sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, sesame oil, minced garlic, and sugar. Stir until the sugar is dissolved.

Pro tip: Adjust soy sauce to taste.

Combine beans with sauce

Drain the green beans and pat dry. Toss them in the bowl with the sauce until well coated.

Serve

Transfer the green beans to a serving dish and sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds.

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Tips & Tricks

Use fresh green beans for the best texture.
Toast sesame seeds for enhanced flavour.
Adjust soy sauce to taste for a personalized touch.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are Japanese style sesame green beans?

They are a simple side dish made with green beans, soy sauce, sesame oil, and toasted sesame seeds, offering a nutty and savoury flavour.

How long do sesame green beans last?

They can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

Can I make sesame green beans ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare them ahead and reheat gently before serving.

What do sesame green beans pair well with?

They pair well with grilled fish, teriyaki chicken, or as part of a bento box.

How do I toast sesame seeds?

Toast them in a dry skillet over medium heat for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

Serve these Japanese style sesame green beans alongside grilled fish or teriyaki chicken for a balanced meal. They can also be enjoyed cold as part of a bento box. To make ahead, prepare the green beans and store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving to maintain their crisp texture.

Nutrition per serving

Calories

Protein

Fat

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