Chinese Green Beans With Garlic Sauce Recipe
Introduction
Chinese Green Beans With Garlic Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful side dish that’s quick to prepare and sure to impress. Crisp-tender green beans are stir-fried with aromatic garlic and a savory sauce, making it a perfect accompaniment to any meal.

Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends. Set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Step 3: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for about 30 seconds or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn it.
- Step 4: Add the green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, until they are bright green and tender-crisp.
- Step 5: In a small bowl, mix the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes. Stir until well combined.
- Step 6: Pour the sauce over the green beans and toss to coat evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Step 7: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust any flavors as needed.
- Step 8: Remove from heat and transfer the beans to a serving dish. Enjoy while hot!
Tips & Variations
- For extra heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a splash of chili oil.
- If oyster sauce is unavailable, substitute with hoisin sauce for a different but delicious flavor.
- Try adding a sprinkle of toasted sesame seeds before serving for added texture and nuttiness.
- Blanch the green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes before stir-frying to intensify their green color and tenderness.
Storage
Store any leftover green beans in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat to maintain their texture and flavor. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use frozen green beans for this recipe?
While fresh green beans are preferred for their crispness, frozen green beans can be used. Make sure to thaw and drain them well before cooking to avoid excess moisture.
Is this dish spicy?
The dish can be mildly spicy if you include the red pepper flakes. You can adjust the amount or omit them entirely for a milder flavor.
PrintChinese Green Beans With Garlic Sauce Recipe
This Chinese Green Beans With Garlic Sauce recipe features fresh green beans stir-fried to tender-crisp perfection in a savory garlic sauce made with soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, and a hint of sweetness and heat. It’s a quick and flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of Asian-inspired meals.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Chinese
- Diet: Halal
Ingredients
Green Beans
- 1 pound fresh green beans, trimmed
Sauce and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Beans: Rinse the green beans under cold water and trim the ends carefully to ensure cleanliness and even cooking.
- Heat the Oil: In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat until it starts to shimmer, indicating it’s ready for sautéing.
- Add the Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the hot oil and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn to maintain a pleasant flavor.
- Cook the Beans: Add the green beans to the skillet and stir-fry for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring consistently until they are bright green and tender-crisp, retaining a pleasant texture.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), rice vinegar, sugar, and red pepper flakes, stirring until the mixture is well combined to create a balanced, flavorful sauce.
- Season the Beans: Pour the prepared sauce over the cooked green beans and toss them to coat evenly. Continue cooking for 2 to 3 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and meld with the beans.
- Taste and Adjust: Season with salt and pepper to your liking, adjusting flavors to ensure the perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy.
- Serve Immediately: Remove the pan from heat, transfer the green beans to a serving dish, and enjoy this flavorful side while hot for the best taste and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a fresh chili.
- Oyster sauce is optional but highly recommended for authentic flavor; substitute with mushroom stir-fry sauce for a vegetarian option.
- Make sure to not overcrowd the skillet during stir-frying to ensure beans cook evenly and remain crisp.
- Serve immediately to maintain the beans’ texture and prevent sogginess.
- This dish pairs well with steamed rice or as a side to your favorite Chinese main courses.
Keywords: Chinese green beans, garlic sauce, stir-fry, easy side dish, vegetable dish, Asian recipe, quick dinner

