Quick Weeknights · Indonesian
Tumis Buncis Ebi
Green beans stir-fried quickly with savory dried shrimp for a simple, punchy side dish.
Why This Works
The dried shrimp provides a massive hit of natural MSG-like umami, transforming simple green beans into a savory standout.
The Upgrade
Add a pinch of fried shallots on top just before serving for extra crunch.
Chef's Secret
Michelin TechniqueSoak the dried shrimp in warm water for 10 minutes; this softens them enough to caramelize without becoming chewy.
Ingredients
Total time including resting: 20 min
Directions
Heat a wok over high heat (450°F) and add the oil until smoking.
Sauté the shallots, garlic, and dried shrimp until aromatic and golden (shrimp should smell toasted).
2 minAdd the green beans and stir-fry vigorously, ensuring every bean gets coated in the aromatic oil.
3 minToss in the red chili for a splash of color.
Deglaze with oyster sauce and kecap manis, tossing quickly until the sauce reduces into a glossy glaze.
2 minServe immediately while the beans are still bright green and firm to the bite.
Wine Pairing
Albarino
White Wine
The BottlePazo de Senorans Albarino
The salinity of the dried shrimp is best highlighted by a wine with a sea-spray minerality. Albarino's crisp, saline profile makes the simple stir-fry pop.
Nutrition per Serving
110
calories
6g
protein
12g
carbs
5g
fat
Make It a Complete Meal
Sides the kitchen recommends alongside this dish.
Side Dish
Fried Tempeh
Pan-fry sliced tempeh until golden to add a nutty, protein-packed component to the meal.
Ingredients
Directions
Pat the tempeh slices dry with a paper towel to ensure a crisp exterior.
Whisk the salt, tamari, and sesame oil in a shallow bowl to create a marinade.
Quickly dip each tempeh slice into the marinade, then pat dry again.
Heat the neutral oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
Sear the tempeh for 3 minutes per side until deeply golden and fragrant.
Drain briefly on a wire rack and serve immediately alongside the buncis.
Side Dish
Fragrant Coconut Rice
Cook rice with a little coconut milk to provide a creamy, rich side that elevates the salty green bean dish.
Ingredients
Directions
Rinse rice under cold water until the water runs clear; drain thoroughly.
Combine rice, coconut milk, water, salt, and pandan leaf in a medium heavy-bottomed saucepan.
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, stirring once.
Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Remove from heat and allow to rest, covered, for 10 minutes to steam through.
Discard the pandan leaf and fluff gently with a fork before serving.
Member Reviews
How did it turn out?
Rate this recipe
Very approachable even for a beginner. Turned out great.
Loved the short ingredient list. Everything was already in my pantry.