If you’re looking to invigorate your side dish menu, look no further than these Miso Green Beans. This delightful recipe transforms crisp, fresh green beans into a golden-hued side dish. The secret lies in the savory-sweet miso glaze, which coats the beans, bringing forth layers of depth and flavor. Ready in just a matter of minutes, this plant-based and nutrient-packed dish perfectly complements both cozy weeknight dinners and more elaborate dinner parties.
Miso, with its origins in traditional Japanese cuisine, is renowned for its umami-rich profile. Made from fermented soybeans, miso is an essential element in various culinary creations across the globe. Our choice of white miso (shiro miso) introduces a mild sweetness that’s both flavorful and adaptable. Thus, not only do these miso green beans showcase a fusion of international taste, but they also highlight the simplicity of using minimal ingredients without compromising flavor or quality in any meal.
Why You’ll Love This Miso Green Beans Recipe
- Rich Umami Flavor: The white miso paste delivers a savory depth that’s irresistible.
- Quick and Easy: The entire dish is ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy schedules.
- Healthy and Plant-Based: Packed with nutrients, this dish uses wholesome ingredients.
- Customizable: You can adjust the sweetness or add a kick of spice to suit personal preferences.
Preparation Phase & Tools to Use
Before you dive into cooking your Miso Green Beans, it’s essential to set up your kitchen for success. Ensure your green beans are thoroughly washed and trimmed. Have a small mixing bowl ready for combining the glaze ingredients: white miso paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil. A whisk will help achieve a smooth sauce consistency. For cooking, choose a large wok or a skillet with a heavy bottom to ensure even heat distribution. This will get your beans that perfect char.
A wooden spoon or spatula works wonders when stirring. Keep your minced garlic and sesame seeds within easy reach, as these elements add the critical finishing touch to the dish.
Ingredients
- For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tsp maple syrup (or agave; honey for non-vegan)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- For the beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tsp avocado oil (or other high-heat neutral oil)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Miso Glaze
To ensure your miso green beans are flavorful, start by whisking together the miso paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil in a small bowl. The resulting glaze should have a rich and balanced taste. Set this aside while you prepare the beans.
Step 2: Heat and Char the Green Beans
Switch your attention to cooking by heating a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil and let it warm up until it shimmers. Add the trimmed green beans, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil. Spread them out across the surface of the pan for optimal charing. Stir every so often to prevent burning, cooking them for 3 to 5 minutes until they begin to lightly char and become tender-crisp.
Step 3: Infuse with Garlic
Once your beans have achieved the desired char, add the minced garlic. Stir quickly to avoid burning, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma over approximately 30 seconds. Keep an eye on this step; overcooked garlic can become bitter.
Step 4: Glaze and Serve
As the final step, pour your pre-made miso glaze over the beans. Toss the mixture continuously to evenly coat each green bean with the glaze. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and depth. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish to enjoy immediately.
Variations
- Protein: Add tofu or tempeh chunks for an extra protein boost.
- Vegetables: Swap in broccoli or snap peas for a different take.
- Spices: Introduce a bit of red pepper flakes for heat or ginger for a zingy twist.
Cooking Notes
- Ensure your beans are dry before tossing into the hot oil to avoid excessive splattering.
- Adjust the seasoning of the glaze by taste before pouring onto the beans.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with steamed jasmine rice for a complete meal.
- Add as a side to a main entrée like grilled salmon or roasted chicken.
Tips
- For a more intense garlic flavor, infuse garlic in the oil before searing beans.
- If you prefer less char, reduce cooking time and keep beans a vibrant green.
Prep Time, Cook Time, Total Time
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Nutritional Information
- Calories: Approximately 120 per serving
- Protein: 4 grams
- Sodium: 350 mg
FAQs
What if I don’t have white miso paste?
If you don’t have white miso paste on hand, yellow miso serves as a suitable substitute, though it might add a slightly different flavor profile.
Can I use frozen green beans?
Yes, frozen green beans can be used, though they might yield a softer texture with less char. Ensure they are thawed and dried before cooking.
How can I make it spicier?
To add heat, incorporate a sprinkling of red pepper flakes or a dash of sriracha into the glaze mixture.
Is there an alternative for soy sauce?
Tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative to soy sauce that provides a similar flavor profile.
Conclusion
These Miso Green Beans are not only easy to prepare but also a surefire way to enhance any meal with bold flavors and healthy ingredients. Whether you serve them as a quick side on a busy weeknight or at a dinner party to impress guests, these beans are versatile, flavorful, and packed with satisfaction. Try experimenting with variations or share your experience in the comments. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends seeking culinary inspiration or anyone looking for delicious ways to include more greens in their diet!
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Savory Miso Green Beans
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This delightful recipe transforms crisp, fresh green beans into a golden-hued side dish.
Ingredients
- For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tsp maple syrup (or agave; honey for non-vegan)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
- For the beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tsp avocado oil (or other high-heat neutral oil)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
Instructions
- To ensure your miso green beans are flavorful, start by whisking together the miso paste, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil in a small bowl. The resulting glaze should have a rich and balanced taste. Set this aside while you prepare the beans.
- Switch your attention to cooking by heating a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the avocado oil and let it warm up until it shimmers. Add the trimmed green beans, stirring to coat them evenly with the oil. Spread them out across the surface of the pan for optimal charing. Stir every so often to prevent burning, cooking them for 3 to 5 minutes until they begin to lightly char and become tender-crisp.
- Once your beans have achieved the desired char, add the minced garlic. Stir quickly to avoid burning, allowing the garlic to release its fragrant aroma over approximately 30 seconds. Keep an eye on this step; overcooked garlic can become bitter.
- As the final step, pour your pre-made miso glaze over the beans. Toss the mixture continuously to evenly coat each green bean with the glaze. Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds for added texture and depth. Remove from heat and transfer to a serving dish to enjoy immediately.
Notes
Ensure your beans are dry before tossing into the hot oil to avoid excessive splattering. Adjust the seasoning of the glaze by taste before pouring onto the beans.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
Nutrition
- Calories: 120 kcal
- Sodium: 350 mg
- Protein: 4 g