Din Tai Fung Green Beans Recipe: Tasty Homemade Dish

by | Aug 23, 2024 | Beans Recipes

Ever wonder how to make Din Tai Fung’s famous green beans at home? This Taiwanese dish has won hearts around the world. Now, you can make it in your kitchen too.

With a few simple ingredients and techniques, you can make restaurant-quality green beans at home. The secret is in flash-frying. This method gives the beans a crispy texture and a satisfying crunch.

This recipe uses about 3 cups (or 1 pound) of fresh green beans and 6-7 garlic cloves. The cooking is fast, with the beans frying in hot oil for 45-60 seconds. Then, they’re tossed with garlic and salt.

Want to impress your guests or treat yourself to a gourmet side dish? Let’s explore the Din Tai Fung green beans recipe together. Let’s bring a taste of Taiwan to your table.

Table of Contents

Key Takeaways

  • Flash-frying is crucial for achieving the signature blistered texture
  • Maintain oil temperature between 350-375°F for best results
  • Use 1 pound of green beans with 6-7 garlic cloves for ideal flavor balance
  • Total cooking time is brief, preserving the beans’ crisp texture
  • The recipe serves 2 people and is quick to prepare

Introduction to Din Tai Fung’s Famous Green Beans

Din Tai Fung started in Taipei in 1980 and has become a global hit. It’s famous for its delicious soup dumplings and other tasty side dishes. The stir-fried green beans are a big hit with fans.

Since coming to the U.S. in 2000, Din Tai Fung has won over food lovers with its amazing flavors. People often wait over an hour to get in, but it’s always worth it. The green beans are a favorite for their great taste and texture.

What makes Din Tai Fung’s green beans special is their focus on quality and consistency. They use organic beans and a specific cooking method for that perfect crisp-tender feel. This has made them one of the top ten gourmet restaurants in the world, as named by the New York Times in 1993.

If you’re thinking of visiting Din Tai Fung or want to make their green beans at home, knowing more about them makes the experience even better. Let’s dive into what makes these green beans a must-have at Din Tai Fung.

The Appeal of Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Din Tai Fung’s green beans have become a favorite for many. They offer a perfect mix of flavor and texture. This makes people want to come back for more.

Signature Texture and Flavor

The secret to Din Tai Fung’s green beans is how they are cooked. They are flash-fried at high temperatures. This makes the beans have a crispy outside and a crunchy inside.

Popular Side Dish at Din Tai Fung Restaurants

These szechuan green beans are a top choice at Din Tai Fung. They go well with dumplings or can be eaten alone. Their simple yet bold flavors make them a hit.

Healthier Alternative to Other Side Dishes

For those looking for vegan Chinese recipes, Din Tai Fung green beans are a great pick. They are lighter than deep-fried options but still pack a punch in flavor. Let’s look at how they compare to other popular side dishes:

Side Dish Calories Fat (g) Protein (g)
Din Tai Fung Green Beans 88 5 3
Deep-Fried Spring Rolls 350 18 7
Fried Rice 228 8 5

With their amazing taste and health perks, it’s clear why these garlic green beans are a favorite at Din Tai Fung restaurants around the world.

Ingredients for Din Tai Fung Style Green Beans

To make the perfect Din Tai Fung style green beans, start with the right ingredients. This recipe uses just a few key items. Each one is important for that special taste and texture.

  • 3 cups (about 1 pound) fresh string beans, cut into 2.5-3 inch sections
  • 6-7 garlic cloves, finely minced
  • 2 big pinches of coarse sea salt
  • 1 cup vegetable oil or avocado oil for frying
  • Optional: 1 teaspoon Takii mushroom seasoning for extra umami

These simple ingredients let the green beans’ natural flavors stand out. It’s important to use fresh, crisp beans and lots of garlic. This makes the dish taste just like Din Tai Fung.

Ingredient Amount Purpose
Green beans 1 pound Main vegetable
Garlic cloves 6-7 Flavor base
Vegetable oil 1 cup For frying
Salt 2 pinches Seasoning

With these ingredients, you can make a side dish that’s both healthy and tasty. Now, learn the cooking method to get that perfect Din Tai Fung texture.

Essential Kitchen Tools for the Recipe

To make Din Tai Fung-style green beans at home, you’ll need the right tools. These essentials will help you get that perfect restaurant-quality dish.

Wok or Deep Frying Pan

A good wok is key in Chinese cooking. Its shape spreads heat evenly and makes stir-frying quick. If you don’t have a wok, a deep frying pan can work too. Heat your oil to 350°F for that signature blistered texture.

Slotted Spoon or Spider Strainer

These utensils are vital for taking the green beans out of hot oil. They let the excess oil drain back, keeping your dish crispy. A spider strainer is great for handling big batches.

Thermometer for Oil Temperature

Keeping the oil at the right temperature is crucial. A thermometer helps you keep it at 350°F. This ensures your beans are crispy outside and tender inside. It’s a must for that restaurant-quality stir-fry at home.

With these tools, you’re set to make Din Tai Fung’s famous green beans. Remember, the right equipment is as important as the ingredients in Chinese cooking. Now, let’s get started with preparing those green beans for cooking!

Preparing the Green Beans for Cooking

Begin by washing 1 lb of fresh green beans under cool water. This removes dirt or debris. Then, trim the ends off each bean. Cut them into 3-inch pieces for even cooking and easy eating.

After cutting, dry the green beans with a clean towel or paper towels. This step is key to prevent oil splatters during cooking. It also helps get that perfect blistered texture when stir-frying.

You can prepare the green beans a day before cooking. Just store them in an airtight container in the fridge. This makes it easy to whip up a tasty side dish, just like Din Tai Fung’s.

“Proper preparation is key to achieving restaurant-quality results at home. Take your time with each step, and you’ll be rewarded with perfectly cooked green beans.”

Always use fresh ingredients for the best results. Don’t use canned or frozen green beans. Fresh beans add a crisp texture and bright color to your dish.

The Secret to Din Tai Fung’s Blistered Texture

Din Tai Fung’s green beans are known for their unique blistered texture. This signature crunch comes from a special chinese cooking technique. It combines deep frying vegetables with stir-fry methods. Let’s explore the secrets behind this mouthwatering dish.

Flash-Frying Technique

The key to that perfect texture is flash-frying. This method quickly cooks the green beans in hot oil for about 30 seconds per batch. This short cooking time gives a crispy exterior and a snappy, bright green inside.

Flash-frying green beans

Importance of Oil Temperature

Keeping the right oil temperature is key for flash-frying. The ideal range is between 350°F and 375°F (177°C – 190°C). This high heat makes the signature blistered skin without overcooking the beans.

Small Batch Cooking Method

Cooking the green beans in small batches is crucial. It helps keep the oil temperature consistent. This ensures each batch gets the same crispy treatment.

Cooking Step Time Temperature
Par-boiling 1 ½ minutes Boiling water
Air frying (alternative) 5 minutes total 350°F (177°C)
Flash-frying 30 seconds per batch 350-375°F (177-190°C)

Mastering these chinese cooking techniques lets you make Din Tai Fung’s famous blistered green beans at home. The key is quick cooking and high heat. This gives you that perfect balance of crispiness and freshness.

Step-by-Step Din Tai Fung Green Beans Recipe

Want to make Din Tai Fung green beans at home? It’s simpler than you might think! Follow these steps to whip up these tasty stir-fried green beans.

First, collect your ingredients. You’ll need 1 lb of fresh green beans, 9 cloves of garlic (minced to about 3 tablespoons), vegetable oil, salt, and white pepper.

  1. Heat vegetable oil to 400°F in a wok or deep frying pan.
  2. Flash-fry green beans in small batches for 45 seconds until wrinkled.
  3. Remove beans with a slotted spoon and drain excess oil.
  4. In a separate pan, sauté minced garlic for 30 seconds until lightly browned.
  5. Combine fried beans with garlic, salt, and white pepper.
  6. Stir-fry briefly to mix the flavors.

This recipe makes 4 servings and takes about 20 minutes to prepare. You’ll end up with crispy, garlicky green beans, just like at Din Tai Fung!

Nutrition Facts (per serving) Amount
Calories 92
Carbohydrates 7g
Protein 2g
Fat 7g

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To reheat, air fry for a few minutes to get that crispiness back. Enjoy your homemade Din Tai Fung green beans!

Mastering the Garlic Flavor Profile

Garlic is crucial in Chinese garlic dishes, making your garlic green beans stand out. Getting the garlic right changes everything in your stir-fry seasoning.

Proper Garlic Mincing Technique

For the best taste, mince garlic finely. This spreads the flavor evenly in your dish. Use a sharp knife to chop garlic into tiny bits. The smaller they are, the stronger the taste in your garlic green beans.

Infusing Oil with Garlic Aroma

To make a deep stir-fry seasoning, infuse oil with garlic. Heat oil in a wok over low heat. Add minced garlic and cook until it smells great. This step is key for Chinese garlic dishes, as it puts the garlic’s flavor into the oil.

Balancing Garlic Intensity

Finding the right balance with garlic is key. Too much can be too strong, while too little is bland. Start with a little garlic and adjust as you go. Remember, how long you cook affects the garlic’s strength. Quick cooking keeps the taste sharp, while longer cooking softens it.

Mastering these methods lets you make garlic green beans like a pro at home. The right amount of garlic brings out the beans’ natural flavors without taking over.

Tips for Achieving Restaurant-Quality Results at Home

restaurant copycat recipes

Want to make Din Tai Fung’s famous green beans at home? Here are some chinese cooking tips to improve your homemade dim sum. Begin with fresh, crisp green beans for the best texture. The secret to that blistered skin is in the flash-frying technique.

Heat your oil to the right temperature before cooking. Use a thermometer to make sure it hits 375°F (190°C). Cook in small batches to keep the oil hot. This way, you get a crispy outside and a tender inside.

When it comes to garlic, a little goes a long way. Mince it finely and don’t overcook it. Burnt garlic tastes bitter. Go for a golden brown color to add a rich, aromatic flavor.

Ingredient Amount Tip
Green Beans 1 pound Choose fresh, crisp beans
Oil 1.5 tbsp Heat to 375°F before frying
Garlic 6 cloves Mince finely, cook until golden

Balance is key in chinese cooking. Adjust your seasoning as you go. A pinch of MSG or bouillon powder can boost the umami flavor, just like in restaurant copycat recipes. With these tips, you’ll soon be serving up restaurant-quality green beans at home!

Nutritional Benefits of Green Beans in Chinese Cuisine

Green beans are a key ingredient in many healthy Chinese recipes. They are full of vitamins and minerals that are good for your health. This makes them a great choice for anyone looking to eat well.

In Chinese cooking, green beans are often stir-fried or flash-fried. This quick cooking helps keep their nutrients. A single cup of green beans gives you lots of vitamins A and C, fiber, and minerals like potassium and iron.

Here’s a closer look at what green beans offer in a typical Chinese dish:

Nutrient Amount per 100g % Daily Value
Calories 31 2%
Protein 1.8g 4%
Fiber 2.7g 11%
Vitamin C 12.2mg 14%
Vitamin A 690 IU 14%

For those eating vegan Chinese dishes, green beans are a top pick. They work well with tofu or other plant-based proteins for a full meal. Adding green beans to your Din Tai Fung-style dishes or other recipes brings a healthy twist to your meals.

Pairing Suggestions for Din Tai Fung Green Beans

Make your chinese meal planning better with perfect pairings for Din Tai Fung green beans. This side dish goes well with many flavors in taiwanese cuisine and more. Let’s check out some tasty combinations to make your meals better.

Traditional Taiwanese Accompaniments

In taiwanese cuisine, green beans often go with classic dishes. Try them with xiaolongbao (soup dumplings) or shrimp shumai for a real dim sum feel. These pairings make a meal full of flavors and textures.

Western Fusion Pairings

For a fusion twist, serve Din Tai Fung green beans with grilled meats or roasted veggies. Their garlicky taste and crisp texture go well with a juicy Instant whole. This adds an Asian touch to your Western-style meal.

Beverage Recommendations

Find the right drink to make your meal even better. Here are some tips:

  • Chinese tea: A classic pick that cleanses the palate
  • Light beer: Balances the garlicky taste of the beans
  • White wine: Goes well with the savory flavors
Pairing Type Recommended Dishes Flavor Profile
Traditional Xiaolongbao, Shrimp Shumai Savory, umami
Fusion Grilled meats, Roasted vegetables Smoky, earthy
Beverages Chinese tea, Light beer, White wine Refreshing, crisp

These green beans are versatile and can go with many dishes. Try different pairings to find your top choice in your chinese meal planning.

Variations on the Classic Din Tai Fung Green Beans Recipe

Discover exciting twists on the beloved Din Tai Fung green beans. These chinese green bean recipes bring new flavors while keeping the original dish’s essence. Spice up your cooking routine with these creative variations!

Szechuan green beans add a fiery kick. Use Sichuan peppercorns and chili oil for a spicy sensation. This version is perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.

For vegan options, swap chicken bouillon with mushroom powder or vegetable stock. This simple change makes a plant-based dish without losing flavor. Try long beans or asparagus for a different texture and taste.

Variation Key Ingredients Cooking Time Flavor Profile
Classic Din Tai Fung Green beans, garlic, oil 8 minutes Garlicky, umami
Szechuan Style Sichuan peppercorns, chili oil 10 minutes Spicy, numbing
Vegan Version Mushroom powder, long beans 12 minutes Earthy, savory

Each variation serves 4-6 people and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Experiment with these recipes to find your favorite twist on this classic dish!

Storing and Reheating Leftover Green Beans

Learning how to store leftover Chinese food is crucial for enjoying your Din Tai Fung-inspired green beans later. Let the beans cool down before storing them. Put them in an airtight container and keep them in the fridge. They’ll stay fresh for up to 5 days, great for those who love meal prep.

When reheating your stir-fry green beans, it’s important to do it right to keep their texture. Use a hot skillet or wok for the best results. Add a bit of oil, then stir-fry the beans for 1-2 minutes until they’re hot.

If you’re in a hurry, reheating in the microwave is an option. Put the beans on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals. But be careful not to overcook, as it can make the beans soggy.

Storage Method Duration Reheating Method Time
Refrigerator Up to 5 days Stir-fry 1-2 minutes
Refrigerator Up to 5 days Microwave 30-second intervals

These green beans are very versatile. You can add them to salads cold or quickly reheat them for other dishes. With the right storage and reheating, you’ll enjoy that restaurant-quality taste and texture for days.

From Taiwanese Restaurant to Global Sensation: Din Tai Fung’s Legacy

Din Tai Fung’s story shows how Taiwanese food became popular worldwide. It started as a cooking oil business in 1958 and turned into a dumpling and noodle place in 1972. This move began a journey that would win over food lovers everywhere.

The brand became known for its quality and consistency. This led it from a local spot to a global chain. People around the world now enjoy their xiaolongbao and garlic green beans. Each location keeps the high standards of the original Taipei restaurant.

Din Tai Fung has helped make Taiwanese food more popular. It’s not just about eating; it’s about the experience. In Taipei, people wait in line for hours for their dumplings and side dishes. This has happened all over the world, making Din Tai Fung a top spot for food lovers.

FAQ

What makes Din Tai Fung’s green beans so special?

Din Tai Fung’s green beans are famous for their unique blistered texture and garlicky taste. They’re a lighter side dish option that still packs a punch in flavor and texture.

What ingredients are needed for this recipe?

You’ll need fresh green beans, garlic cloves, salt, white pepper, and MSG or chicken bouillon powder. Vegetable oil is optional for frying.

What kitchen tools are essential for preparing Din Tai Fung-style green beans?

You’ll need a wok or deep frying pan, a slotted spoon or spider strainer, and a thermometer. These tools help with flash-frying and keeping the oil at the right temperature.

How do you achieve the blistered texture of Din Tai Fung’s green beans?

The secret is to flash-fry the green beans in hot oil (350-375°F) for 15-30 seconds. Use a thermometer and cook in small batches to get a crispy outside and a snappy, green interior.

How do you balance the garlic flavor in this dish?

Mince the garlic finely and cook it in oil until it smells fragrant. Adjust the garlic amount and cooking time to make sure it enhances the green beans without being too strong.

What tips can help achieve restaurant-quality results at home?

Use fresh, crisp green beans and keep the oil hot for flash-frying. Cook in small batches to keep the oil temperature steady. Don’t overcook the garlic to avoid bitterness. Adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and MSG or bouillon powder to taste.

How can you pair Din Tai Fung green beans with other dishes?

Serve them with traditional dim sum like xiaolongbao and shrimp shumai. For a Western twist, pair with grilled meats or roasted veggies. Enjoy with Chinese tea, light beer, or white wine to balance the garlic flavor.

What variations can be made to the classic recipe?

Try adding Sichuan peppercorns or chili oil for a spicy twist. Use different veggies like long beans or asparagus. For a vegan version, swap chicken bouillon with mushroom powder or vegetable stock concentrate.

How do you store and reheat leftover green beans?

Keep leftover green beans in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a hot skillet or wok for the best texture. Or, briefly in the microwave. Just be careful not to overcook them.