Chinese Spicy Green Beans

Not Indian but a recipe we've really enjoyed. This works well with the frozen long skinny green beans from Aldi.


1 lb green beans
1 TBsp garlic, chopped
1 TBsp ginger, chopped
2 scallions. white parts only, finely chopped
½ tsp chili paste or chili powder
1 TBsp dark soy sauce
½ tsp sugar
¼ tsp salt, or to taste
Pepper to taste, optional
2 TBsp vegetable or peanut oil for stir-frying, or as needed

1. Heat 1 tablespoon oil over medium heat. Add the green beans and stir-fry until they start to shrivel or "pucker" and turn brown (6 to 7 minutes for longbeans).
2. Heat 1 tablespoon oil in the wok on high heat. Add the garlic, ginger and scallions. Stir-fry for a few seconds, then add the chili paste and stir-fry for a few more seconds until aromatic.
3. Add the green beans and the dark soy sauce, sugar, salt, and pepper if using. Stir everything together, and taste and adjust the seasoning if desired. Serve hot.