Szechuan Green Beans in the Microwave

No deep-frying is necessary.

Szechuan-Style Green Beans in the Microwave (Makes 2 cups)

3 cloves garlic, smashed and peeled

2 quarter-sized slices of fresh ginger, peeled
1 scallion, trimmed and cut into 2-inch lengths
2 teaspoons vegetable oil
1/2 teaspoon hot red-pepper flakes
2 teaspoons tamari soy sauce
2 teaspoons rice vinegar
1/2 pound of green beans, ends trimmed off

1. Chop or place garlic, ginger and scallions in a chopper until chopped finely. Remove to 1-1/2- or 2-quart casserole dish. Add oil and pepper flakes. Cook, uncovered, at high power for 2 minutes.
2. Remove dish from oven. Stir in remaining ingredients. Cook uncovered on high for 6 to 7 minutes, stirring a few times.
3. Remove from oven. Stir and serve hot or cold.


Recipe from The Microwave Gourmet, a brilliant 1987 cookbook by Barbara Kafka, reprinted in 1998. 44 cents on Amazon.com. Try the Fudgy Brownies.