Are you looking for a quick and easy side dish that's surprisingly addictive? Look no further! This recipe for deep-fried string beans will elevate your meal to a whole new level of deliciousness. Forget boring steamed vegetables – these crispy, crunchy beans are bursting with flavor and are surprisingly simple to make. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this recipe is guaranteed to become a family favorite. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade cooking at its finest!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound fresh string beans, trimmed
- 1 cup all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 cup ice water
- Vegetable oil, for frying
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the String Beans
Wash the string beans thoroughly and trim off the ends. For best results, aim for uniformly sized beans – this ensures even cooking.
Step 2: Create the Batter
In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and paprika. Gradually add the ice water, whisking constantly until a smooth batter forms. The batter should be thick but pourable. The addition of ice water helps create a lighter, crispier crust.
Step 3: Coat the String Beans
Add the string beans to the batter and toss gently to ensure they are evenly coated.
Step 4: Deep Fry the Beans
Heat about 2 inches of vegetable oil in a large, deep skillet or Dutch oven to 375°F (190°C). Use a thermometer to monitor the oil temperature for consistent results. Carefully add the battered string beans to the hot oil, working in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan. Overcrowding will lower the oil temperature and result in soggy beans.
Step 5: Fry Until Golden Brown
Fry the string beans for 3-4 minutes, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Remove them from the oil with a slotted spoon and place them on a wire rack lined with paper towels to drain excess oil.
Step 6: Season and Serve
Season the fried string beans immediately with salt to taste. Serve hot as a delicious side dish alongside your favorite protein and starch.
Cooking Tips for Extra Crispy String Beans:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: Fry the string beans in batches to maintain a consistent oil temperature for optimal crispiness.
- Use a thermometer: Monitoring the oil temperature is crucial for achieving perfectly fried string beans.
- Don't overcook: Overcooked string beans will be soggy. Fry them until golden brown and crispy, then remove them immediately.
- Pat them dry: Before adding the string beans to the batter, gently pat them dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture. This helps create a crispier crust.
Variations:
- Spicy String Beans: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or some chopped chili flakes to the batter for a spicy kick.
- Herbed String Beans: Incorporate fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, or oregano into the batter for an aromatic twist.
- Parmesan String Beans: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the fried string beans after they've been drained.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
This information is approximate and will vary based on the specific ingredients used. This recipe serves about 4.
- Calories: Around 150-200
- Fat: Around 10-15g
- Protein: Around 3-5g
- Carbohydrates: Around 15-20g
This recipe offers a delicious and healthy way to enjoy string beans. It’s a simple yet impressive dish that’s perfect for adding a delightful crunch to any meal. Enjoy!