How can I control how spicy the Mexican green beans are?

You can easily increase or decrease the spice level in this recipe. Make sure you remove all the seeds from the jalapeno (avoid touching your eyes). Also, use half the amount of dried herbs since they are more potent than fresh. And you can use parsley instead of cilantro which has a strong, spicy flavor.

What other vegetables can I add to this green bean stir fry?

Try corn, tomatoes or zucchini. Add the tomato and zucchini last since they are softer vegetables and will quick faster than the green beans.

Mexican Green Beans ⋆

Description

Mexican green beans is a vegetable dish that has bold flavors and an amazing fresh and spicy taste. They are sauteed with onions, jalapeño and bell peppers. This quick and easy side dish is ready in about 15 minutes and goes well with any of your favorite main dishes.

Ingredients

Units Scale

1 pound green beans, washed and trimmed
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium red red onion, chopped
1 large red pepper, chopped
1 jalapeno, seeds removed and finely chopped
2-3 cloves of garlic, finely minced
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1/2 teaspoon chili powder
fresh sprigs of oregano, cilantro, finely minced or use 1/2 teaspoon each dried spices

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Saute the red pepper, onion and jalapeno for two minutes. Add garlic and seasonings and saute another minute.
Increase heat to high and add green beans. Fry for 1-2 minutes.
Lower heat back to medium, add 2-3 tablespoons of water, cover the pan and cook vegetables for another 5 minutes.
Test a green bean for doneness. They should be crisp but tender. If you like them softer, put cover back on, add a bit more water and continue to cook another 1-2 minutes.

Notes

*Keep in mind that spices do expire and could affect the flavor of the recipe. The older the spice, the weaker it will usually be.

*If your frying pan is not large enough for all the vegetables to spread out and cook, then make two batches of green beans. This will insure that they will all cook evenly.

If you find the green beans are sticking to the pan or browning too quickly, turn down the flame and add a1-2 tablespoons of water to the pan.

Once you cover the green beans, check on them frequently. They can quickly go from very crisp to soft in just a few minutes.

*Store leftovers in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove in a skillet on medium heat until hot. Add about two tablespoons water to help quickly steam the beans. Or you can microwave them for 1-2 minutes.

*You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container. Defrost overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as above.