Thai Basil and Red Chili Stir-Fried Long Beans

This Thai stir-fried long bean dish is a great way to use up those long beans that are always taking over your CSA box. The beans are stir-fried with garlic, red chili, and Thai basil, and then tossed in a simple sauce made with soy sauce, lime juice, and honey. The result is a flavorful and easy dish that can be served as a side or main course.

Long beans have a long and storied history in Southeast Asia, where they are believed to have originated. They were first cultivated in Thailand over 500 years ago, and they quickly became a staple ingredient in Thai cuisine. Long beans are typically stir-fried, but they can also be boiled, steamed, or pickled.

Prep time: 10 | Cook time: 15 | Serves: 2

Ingredients

• 1 tbsp coconut oil
• 1 red chili, finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 lb long beans, trimmed and cut into 2-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup Thai basil leaves, plus more for garnish
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp honey

Instructions

1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the red chili and garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
3. Add the long beans and stir-fry until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the Thai basil, soy sauce, lime juice, and honey.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with additional Thai basil leaves and serve immediately.

Why It Works

• The coconut oil adds a rich flavor to the dish.
• The red chili provides a bit of heat, while the garlic adds a savory flavor.
• The long beans are cooked until tender, but still retain a bit of their crunch.
• The Thai basil adds a unique flavor to the dish.
• The sauce is simple, but it complements the flavors of the other ingredients perfectly.