Terra Americana

I keep buying long beans at the market.  Then I keep having to do something with them.  Each attempt has been completely uninspired...that is until the other day, when I also needed to get rid of some red peppers and realized the local peanuts sitting on the counter would add the perfect touch. I had enough for 2nds, but they evaporated, or something like that...

• 1 1/2 lb Chinese long beans, trimmed and cut crosswise
• 3 cayenne peppers, chopped
• 1 small red onion, halved lengthwise, then very thinly sliced
• 1 tbsp Chinese 5 spice
• 1 1/2 tbsp Peanut Oil
• 1/2 cup unsalted roasted peanuts
• 1 tbsp soy sauce

Trim and cut beans crosswise.  Put beans, onion and pepers in a microwaveable bowl with 1 tbsp water.  Cover and microwave on high for 5 minutes.  Heat wok on high, add oil and 5 spice.  Stir until they start to sizzle.  Stir in peanuts and reduce the heat to medium.  Add the cooked vegetables and soy sauce.  Cook for about 5 minutes, until the vegetables are well coated and onions are beginning to brown.  Terrific on it's own or as a side for grilled chicken.

Get what you need for this tasty treat at the Farmer's Market at the X, in Forest Park.

More about Beans:

• Shrimp and Black Bean Salad
• green beans with craisins and walnuts
• Marinated 8 Layer Salad
• Hoppin John

Photo Credit:  Julie Cecchini