What are blistered green beans?

Blistering refers to the way the outside of the green beans bubbles and browns from the high heat of the hot skillet. It's a specific cooking technique that tends to be quick and fast, which locks in flavor and adds a subtle char that brings out the sweetness of the fresh green beans.

Which types of beans are best for blistering?

You can prepare any fresh-eating green bean using this method. You can use regular green beans (like Blue Lake or Jade green beans from the farmers market), yellow wax beans, colorful Dragon's Tongue or purple beans, Chinese long beans, or thin, skinny haricots verts. The cook time will vary slightly depending on the size of the beans, so keep a close eye and be careful not to overcook.

Can you blister beans in a non-stick skillet?

Technically, yes, but you get the best blister effect from a hot cast iron or stainless steel pan.

Blistered Green Beans

Description

Blistered Green Beans are smoky, garlicky, and peppery. This flavorful side dish is one of the quickest ways to prepare fresh green beans. As the veggie blister over high heat, they take on a subtle char flavor that balances their natural sweetness. Then, toss them in garlic, soy sauce, and red pepper flakes for a savory, slightly spicy, and super easy side dish that goes with anything!

Ingredients

2 tablespoons butter
1 ½ pounds green beans, ends trimmed and pat dried
3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 teaspoon soy sauce
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
¼ teaspoon ground black pepper (or to taste)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

In a large stainless pan or cast iron skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat until bubbly, about 1 minute.
Add green beans and toss well to coat in the melted butter. Allow the green beans to cook (no need to stir) and blister on both sides, about 2 minutes on each side. The green beans should look slightly charred. (Optionally, you can blister the green beans by broiling in the oven on HI until slightly charred, about 1 minute).
Add garlic, soy sauce, and chili flakes. Mix well to season the green beans. Add salt and pepper to taste and serve immediately.

Notes

How to store: Blistered green beans taste best fresh from the skillet. If you have too much leftover, let them cool to room temperature then store them in an airtight container in the fridge for 3-4 days.

How to reheat: Microwave the green beans for 1-2 minutes or warm them in a hot skillet over medium low heat. Once reheated, the green beans will be slightly softer than they were when freshly cooked.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Category: Side Dish
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Asian