"Orange Chicken" Green Beans

I am a big fan of Panda Express Orange Chicken. It is so decadent and delicious yet so reasonably priced. I do occasionally treat myself to it but am always looking for a healthier and easier homemade version. In this recipe, I started with a Panda Express Orange Chicken copycat recipe but substituted the chicken for green beans which accomplishes making it both healthier and easier. If you have the ingredients on hand, this dish can be whipped up in 10 minutes or less, but satisfies that craving for something rich and delicious.

Ingredients

• 1 pound fresh green beans
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tbsp oil
• 2 cloves minced garlic or 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/8 tsp chili flakes
• 1/4 tsp ginger powder
• 2 tbsp sugar
• 2 tbsp orange juice
• 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp corn starch
• 1 tbsp water
• 1 tsp sesame oil

Directions

• Remove the stems from the green beans and trim to one inch lengths.
• Wash beans and place in frying pan with 1 tbsp water. Cover and cook on medium high for 3-5 minutes until tender.
• Remove the beans from the pan, then add the oil and heat over medium.
• Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds. Add chili flakes and ginger and cook for another 30 seconds.
• Add sugar and orange juice and stir until sugar is dissolved, then add vinegar and soy sauce.
• In separate bowl, combine 1 tbsp corn starch and 1 tbsp water until smooth. Add to pan and cook 1-2 minutes until thickened.
• Add back green beans and coat in sauce, then serve.