Chinese Long Beans Recipe Vegetarian: Easy & Delicious Ideas

Chinese long beans, also known as yardlong beans or snake beans, are a delightful and versatile vegetable that can transform any meal into a vibrant and healthy experience. These slender, crunchy beans are longer than typical green beans and have a slightly sweet, earthy flavor that works wonderfully in vegetarian dishes.

Whether you’re looking to add a nutritious side to your dinner or whip up a quick, flavorful stir-fry, this Chinese long beans recipe is a fantastic choice.

This vegetarian recipe highlights the beans’ natural crunch and pairs them with classic Asian flavors like garlic, ginger, and soy sauce. It’s easy to prepare, requires minimal ingredients, and delivers a dish that is both comforting and fresh.

If you love simple yet tasty vegetable stir-fries, this recipe will soon become a staple in your kitchen repertoire. Plus, it’s a great way to get creative and add more plant-based meals to your weekly menu!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chinese long beans have a unique texture that stays crisp even after cooking, making this dish irresistibly crunchy and fresh. This recipe is:

• Quick and easy – Ready in under 20 minutes, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Healthy and vegetarian – Packed with fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants with no animal products.
• Flavor-packed – The garlic, ginger, and soy sauce combo adds savory depth without overpowering the beans.
• Versatile – Enjoy it as a side dish or toss it with rice or noodles for a full meal.
• Customizable – Easy to adjust spice levels or add other veggies for variety.

Ingredients

• 400g Chinese long beans (yardlong beans), washed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil (such as canola or peanut oil)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1-inch piece fresh ginger, grated or finely chopped
• 1 small red chili, thinly sliced (optional, for heat)
• 2 tbsp soy sauce (use tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tbsp hoisin sauce (ensure vegetarian version)
• 1 tsp sesame oil (to finish)
• 1 tsp sugar or maple syrup
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)

Equipment

• Large wok or frying pan
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring spoons
• Spatula or wooden spoon
• Grater or microplane (for ginger)
• Serving dish or bowl

Instructions

1. Prepare the long beans: Rinse the Chinese long beans thoroughly under cold water. Trim off the ends, then cut them into roughly 2-inch long pieces. Set aside.
2. Heat the oil: Place your wok or large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the vegetable oil and allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
3. Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic, grated ginger, and sliced red chili (if using) to the hot oil. Stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic.
4. Cook the beans: Add the cut Chinese long beans to the wok. Stir-fry continuously for about 5-7 minutes. The beans should become bright green and tender-crisp. If they start to stick, add a splash of water and cover briefly to steam.
5. Add sauces and seasoning: Pour in the soy sauce, hoisin sauce, and sprinkle the sugar over the beans. Toss everything well to coat the beans evenly. Cook for another 2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Finish with sesame oil: Drizzle the sesame oil over the beans and give it a final toss. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
7. Serve: Transfer to a serving dish and garnish with sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot.

Tips & Variations

For the best texture, avoid overcooking the long beans; they should remain crispy with a slight bite.

If you want to add more protein, try tossing in some pan-fried tofu cubes or edamame beans. For a nutty twist, sprinkle chopped roasted peanuts on top just before serving.

To make this dish spicier, increase the amount of fresh chili or add a dash of chili oil towards the end. If hoisin sauce is not available, you can substitute with a mix of soy sauce and a little bit of peanut butter for richness.

Feel free to incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers, sliced mushrooms, or shredded carrots to boost color and nutrition.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Suggestions

This Chinese long beans dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside other Asian-inspired dishes such as vegetable fried rice or tofu stir-fry.

For a heartier option, toss the cooked beans with noodles and garnish with chopped scallions. It also makes a great side to Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a balanced meal with a vegetarian twist.

Try pairing it with lighter options like Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for a fresh vegetable medley. For a fun appetizer, serve alongside homemade Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy kick.

Conclusion

Chinese long beans are a fantastic ingredient to incorporate into your vegetarian cooking. Their unique texture and flavor make every bite a delightful experience.

This easy stir-fry recipe requires minimal prep and ingredients, making it perfect for busy cooks who want a nutritious, tasty dish without fuss.

Whether you’re new to Asian cooking or looking to expand your vegetable repertoire, this recipe is a reliable crowd-pleaser that can be adapted to your taste preferences. By using simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients, you can enjoy a healthy, home-cooked meal that’s both satisfying and vibrant.

Give it a try tonight and discover why Chinese long beans deserve a regular spot on your plate!

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