Ina Garten String Beans with Shallots Recipe
If you are looking for a simple, delicious and elegant side dish, Ina Garten’s string beans with shallots recipe is perfect. This dish is light, flavorful and easy to make.
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh string beans trimmed
- 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 3 large shallots thinly sliced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt or to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar optional, for caramelizing shallots
- 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
Trim the String Beans
- Wash the beans and cut off the ends. Make them uniform for even cooking.
Slice the Shallots
- Peel the shallots. Slice them thinly to cook evenly and caramelize nicely.
Melt Butter in Skillet
- Place a large skillet over medium heat. Melt butter until it starts to bubble.
Cook Shallots
- Add sliced shallots to the skillet. Stir and cook for 3–4 minutes.
Add Sugar for Caramelization
- Sprinkle sugar over shallots if you want sweeter flavor. Stir gently.
Add String Beans
- Add the trimmed string beans to the skillet. Toss them with shallots and butter.
Season the Beans
- Add salt and pepper. Mix well so flavors coat the beans evenly.
Add Water
- Pour in 2 tablespoons of water. Cover skillet to steam beans for 3–4 minutes.
Stir Occasionally
- Check and stir the beans to prevent burning. Ensure even cooking.
Check for Doneness
- Beans should be tender but slightly crisp. Taste and adjust seasoning.
Serve Hot
- Transfer beans and shallots to a serving dish. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm string beans for best texture.
- Slice shallots evenly to cook uniformly.
- Don’t overcook beans; keep them slightly crisp.
- Caramelize shallots slowly for richer flavor.
- Stir gently to prevent butter from burning.