Keto Asian Green Beans [Quick Recipe] 🥘

Name: Keto Asian Green Beans
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons sesame oil; 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes; 4 garlic cloves (thinly sliced); 1 inch piece of fresh ginger (grated); 1 lb fresh green beans (trimmed); 2 tablespoons tamari; 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon granulated erythritol (we use Swerve)

Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Are you ready to dive into the world of flavorful and healthy Asian-inspired side dishes? Say hello to our Keto Asian Green Beans! These vibrant and delicious Chinese green beans are ideal for any Asian meal. Trust us, you'll be hooked once you try this dish. So, get ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of flavors that will transport you straight to the bustling streets of Asia. Let's get cooking!

Jump to:

Preparation and cooking overview

Heat sesame oil in a cast-iron skillet and sauté red pepper flakes, ginger, and garlic. Add green beans and cook until tender, then simmer with tamari, rice wine vinegar, and sweetener. In under 15 minutes, you'll have delicious keto skillet green beans to enjoy!

Chef's note

For an added punch of flavor, opt for sesame chili oil instead of regular sesame oil. It will bring a delightful spicy element to the dish. Also, experiment by incorporating your preferred keto-friendly protein, like grilled chicken or tofu.

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Difficulty Level: Easy
Recipe Makes 6 Servings

For more inspiration check out our Sides recipe.

🥘 Ingredients for this keto Asian green beans recipe

2 tablespoons sesame oil
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
4 garlic cloves thinly sliced
1-inch piece of fresh ginger grated
1 pound fresh green beans trimmed
2 tablespoons tamari
1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated erythritol (we use Swerve)

Ingredient substitutions

Sesame oil: If you don't like sesame oil, you can use avocado oil or olive oil for a different flavor profile.
Red pepper flakes: If you prefer milder heat, substitute with a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Tamari: You can use coconut aminos as a substitute.
Rice wine vinegar: Swap it out with apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar for a tangy twist.
Granulated erythritol: Swerve is a popular brand of granulated erythritol. Alternatively, use other keto-friendly sweeteners like monk fruit sweetener or stevia as a replacement.

Additional ingredients

Feel free to customize the dish by including these optional ingredients.

Almonds: Add almonds for a satisfying crunch and delightful nutty flavor that elevates the dish to a new level.
Sesame seeds: Toasted sesame seeds provide a delightful nuttiness and add a visual appeal.
Scallions: Infuse your dish with a burst of color and a mild onion flavor that perfectly complements the green beans.
Shredded coconut: A sprinkle of toasted shredded coconut introduces a subtle tropical essence, adding a surprising twist that will transport your taste buds to paradise.
Bell peppers: For a delightful contrast in sweetness and texture, bell peppers are a must-add, bringing harmony and balance to your keto green beans.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds vibrancy and an herbaceous touch, infusing the dish with a burst of refreshing flavors that will make every bite delightful.

Cooking tools required

To make this sweet and spicy green beans recipe, you will need the following tools:

10" or larger cast-iron skillet
Grater
Knife
Cutting board
Measuring spoons and cups

Tools substitute options

Cast iron skillet: A non-stick frying pan or stainless steel pan can work as an alternative to a cast-iron skillet.

How to make Keto Asian Green Beans: step-by-step guide

Cooking methods

Sautéing

Preparation steps

Start by gathering all the ingredients required for this recipe.
Measure out all the oil, seasonings, and spices.
Slice the garlic cloves and grate the fresh ginger using a grater or finely mince it with a knife.
Trim the ends of the fresh green beans, removing any tough stems or edges.

Cooking instructions

Heat the oil in a 10" or larger cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add in the red pepper flakes, ginger, and garlic. Saute for 30 seconds just until fragrant.
Add in the green beans and saute for 4-5 minutes until they just begin to soften. Pour in the tamari, vinegar, and erythritol. Bring to a simmer for 4-5 minutes until the sauce is thick and the green beans are tender.

Chef's pro tip

Avoid overcooking the green beans, as doing so can lead to a mushy texture. Sauté them until they just begin to soften, while still retaining a crisp texture. Test for doneness by biting into a green bean to ensure it maintains a slight crunch. This approach will give you perfectly cooked green beans, fitting for an American meal, every time!

Keto Asian Green Beans in a cast iron skillet with a fork serving

What to serve with low carb Asian green beans?

Roasted chicken: The juicy and flavorful Roasted Chicken perfectly complements the vibrant green beans, creating a satisfying and balanced meal with contrasting textures.
Broiled Salmon: The tender and flaky fish adds a rich and satisfying element to the dish, enhancing the overall taste.
Stir-fried tofu: Delicate and protein-packed, tofu offers a fantastic vegetarian option that pairs seamlessly with the green beans, creating a wholesome and satisfying meal.
Cauliflower Fried Rice: This low-carb substitute with a rice-like texture provides a complete meal experience that harmonizes perfectly with the Asian-inspired green beans.
Garlic Butter Shrimp: The succulent shrimp with a kick of spice brings a delightful contrast to the green beans, creating an exciting and flavorful combination.

How to make it healthier

Choose low-sodium tamari or soy sauce to reduce sodium intake.
Opt for organic green beans, garlic, and ginger for an enhanced and flavorful experience.
Replace granulated erythritol with a natural sweetener like stevia or monk fruit sweetener to avoid artificial sweeteners.

Time-saving tips

Opt for frozen green beans: Use frozen green beans that are already trimmed and ready to cook.
Cook in large batches: Double the recipe and cook a larger quantity. Store the leftovers in the refrigerator for quick and easy reheating on busy days.

What can I prepare ahead of time?

Peel and slice the garlic cloves and grate the ginger ahead of time. Store them in separate containers or zip-top bags in the refrigerator until ready to use.
Take the time to trim the ends and wash the green beans beforehand. Pat them dry and store them in a sealed container or zip-top bag in the refrigerator.
Measure the tamari, rice wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, and any other ingredients in the recipe and store them in small containers or bowls.

Storage and reheating instructions

Storage tips

Store the leftover side dish in an airtight container or sealed zip-top bag.
Refrigerate the leftovers promptly and consume them within 3-4 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing is possible, but note that the green beans may become slightly softer upon thawing. Store in a freezer-safe container or bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating best practices

Microwave: Place the desired amount of green beans in a microwave-safe dish and heat on high for 1-2 minutes until heated through.
Oven: Preheat to 350°F (180°C), transfer green beans to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil and reheat for 10-15 minutes.
Stovetop: Heat green beans in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or oil for 5-7 minutes.

Recipe wrap-up and conclusion

With each crispy bite, these Keto Asian Green Beans will make you feel like you're walking through the bustling streets of Asia. Ready to whip up this tasty side dish in your own kitchen and embark on an awesome adventure of flavor? Grab your ingredients, put on your chef's hat, and let your kitchen be your playground of flavors. Cook with your friends and family, savoring every moment together.

Remember, the best culinary adventures await those who dare to dive in. Now, go on, my fellow kitchen explorer, and conquer the world of Asian keto recipes one delicious dish at a time! Enjoy the journey!

Looking for Asian-inspired dishes? Check out these recipes:

Frequently asked questions

Yes, you can use a non-stick frying pan or stainless steel pan as an alternative.

Yes, you can freeze this dish, but it may become slightly softer upon thawing.

Refrigerate the leftovers for 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Of course! Feel free to add grilled chicken, tofu, or other keto-friendly proteins to make it a complete meal.

Certainly! Frozen green beans can be a convenient substitute. Just be mindful of adjusting the cooking time.

Green beans are low in calories, with approximately 73 calories per 100 grams. They provide a nutritious and satisfying addition to your keto meals.

Yes, green beans can be enjoyed on a keto diet. They are low in carbs and can fit well within the macronutrient limits of a keto lifestyle.

📖 Recipe