5 Ways Green Beans Transform with Soy & Marmalade

Green beans, while a staple in many kitchens for their versatility and nutritional benefits, are often relegated to simple side dishes. However, when paired with soy sauce and marmalade, these humble beans undergo a transformation, elevating their flavor profile to gourmet status. In this blog post, we'll explore five innovative ways to use soy sauce and marmalade to redefine your green bean dishes, turning everyday meals into extraordinary culinary experiences.

1. Soy Marmalade Glazed Green Beans

Start with a basic yet effective method of enhancing green beans: glazing. Here's how you can create a delectable Soy Marmalade Glazed Green Beans dish:

• Ingredients: Fresh green beans, soy sauce, orange marmalade, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and sesame seeds.
• Preparation:
  1. Wash and trim the ends of the green beans.
  2. In a pan, heat sesame oil, add minced garlic, and grated ginger.
  3. Add the green beans, stir-fry for a couple of minutes.
  4. Pour in equal parts soy sauce and marmalade, cook until beans are tender and glazed.
  5. Finish with a sprinkle of sesame seeds.

💡 Note: Ensure the marmalade has melted into a sauce before turning off the heat to achieve the perfect glaze.

2. Green Bean and Orange Stir-Fry

The sweetness of marmalade paired with the umami of soy sauce in a stir-fry brings out the best in green beans. Here's how to prepare this dish:

• Ingredients: Green beans, soy sauce, orange marmalade, chicken or tofu, bell peppers, onions, cornstarch, ginger, and rice wine vinegar.
• Cooking Steps:
  1. Mix soy sauce, marmalade, vinegar, and cornstarch to form a sauce.
  2. Stir-fry your choice of protein with ginger, then add vegetables including green beans.
  3. Pour the sauce over the ingredients, cook until thickened and beans are crisp-tender.

3. Sweet and Savory Green Bean Pickle

Create a unique pickled green bean dish with soy and marmalade, which can be a side or a snack:

• Ingredients: Green beans, soy sauce, orange marmalade, apple cider vinegar, water, garlic, and peppercorns.
• Pickling Process:
  1. Combine water, vinegar, soy sauce, and marmalade in a pot, bring to a boil.
  2. Blanch green beans briefly to keep them crunchy, then pack into jars.
  3. Add garlic and peppercorns, then pour the hot mixture over beans, seal, and let cool.

🚨 Note: Allow at least 48 hours for flavors to meld before enjoying the pickled beans.

4. Green Bean Salad with Soy-Marmalade Vinaigrette

Turn your green beans into a refreshing salad:

• Ingredients: Green beans, soy sauce, orange marmalade, olive oil, lemon juice, mustard, nuts or seeds for crunch, and salad leaves.
• Salad Making:
  1. Blanch green beans, then cool them down.
  2. Whisk together marmalade, soy sauce, oil, lemon juice, and mustard to make the vinaigrette.
  3. Toss beans, nuts or seeds, and leaves with the dressing just before serving.

5. Green Bean Crostini with Soy-Marmalade Spread

Transform green beans into an appetizer by creating a spread:

• Ingredients: Green beans, cream cheese, soy sauce, orange marmalade, garlic powder, crostini or crackers.
• Preparation Steps:
  1. Boil and finely chop green beans.
  2. Mix cream cheese with soy sauce, marmalade, and garlic powder.
  3. Spread the mixture on crostini, top with chopped beans.

In wrapping up this culinary journey, it's clear that green beans are more than just a side dish. With the right ingredients, they can be the star of the meal. Soy sauce adds depth and umami, while the sweetness of marmalade provides a unique contrast, elevating green beans from ordinary to extraordinary. Whether you're looking to impress at a dinner party or just want to elevate your everyday meals, these five techniques will ensure your green beans never look or taste the same.

Can I use any type of marmalade?

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Yes, you can experiment with different types like lime or grapefruit marmalade for varied flavors.

What can I substitute for soy sauce if I’m avoiding soy?

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Consider using tamari or coconut aminos for a soy-free alternative.

How long will the pickled green beans last?

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When stored in the refrigerator, they can last for several weeks. Ensure the beans are fully submerged in the pickling liquid.