Cumin Green Beans and Mushrooms
This bold stir-fry showcases the versatility of one of our pantry’s most staple spices: ground cumin. Often used in conjunction with other spices, cumin is just as compelling as a singular flavor, and it shines in this green bean and mushroom stir-fry. The warmth and slight citrus edge of cumin coaxes out sweetness from the beans and the earthiness from the mushrooms. The choice of mushrooms is up to you, from everyday button or creminis to fancier varieties like oyster or shiitake mushrooms. As with all stir-fries, most of the active time is spent in preparation. But when you are ready to cook, the meal comes together quickly.
- Preparation:
- Cooking:
- Total:
- Serves: 4 persons
Ingredients
- 5teaspoons ground cumin
- ¼to 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (or more to your liking)
- Salt
- 1pound mushrooms, such as cremini, oyster or fresh shiitake, trimmed
- Neutral oil, such as canola
- 1(1-inch) piece fresh ginger, peeled and finely chopped
- 4scallions, white and green parts separated and cut into 1-inch segments
- 1pound green beans, trimmed
- 1yellow onion, peeled, trimmed and sliced into thin wedges
- 1clove garlic, peeled and finely chopped
- 1tablespoon soy sauce or tamari
- Black pepper
- Cooked rice, for serving
Instructions
Step 1
In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, crushed red pepper and about 1 teaspoon of salt. Set aside.Step 2
Prepare the mushrooms: If you’re using cremini, button, shiitake or similarly shaped mushrooms, halve them through the stems. For branched varieties like oyster mushrooms, tear them into bite-size chunks.Step 3
Heat a wok or large 12-inch skillet on medium-high for 2 minutes. Drizzle in 1 tablespoon of oil and add the ginger and white scallion segments. Toss for 15 seconds until fragrant.Step 4
Add the green beans, onion, garlic, cumin spice mix and 1 tablespoon of oil, and stir-fry, tossing constantly until the onions and beans start to soften, about 2 minutes.Step 5
Add the mushrooms, soy sauce and about 1 tablespoon of water, and cook for another 3 to 5 minutes, until the beans are just tender and the mushrooms are seared and golden.Step 6
Turn off the heat, add the green scallion segments and toss. Taste and make sure you are happy with seasonings, adding salt and pepper if needed. Serve with rice.