If your side dish routine needs a refresh, these miso green beans are here to save dinner. Crisp-tender green beans are stir-fried until lightly charred, then coated in a savory-sweet miso glaze that’s ready in minutes. It’s a plant-based side dish that’s quick enough for weeknights yet special enough for entertaining.
With only a handful of ingredients—green beans, miso paste, maple syrup, soy sauce, sesame oil, and garlic—you’ll have a side dish that’s both healthy and bursting with flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Full of umami from white miso paste.
- Fast – ready in just 15 minutes.
- Healthy & plant-based with minimal ingredients.
- Customizable – swap in other veggies or adjust the sweetness and spice.
What is Miso?
Miso is a traditional Japanese seasoning made from fermented soybeans, sometimes combined with rice or barley. The fermentation process creates a rich, salty, and savory paste that adds incredible depth to soups, marinades, dressings, and glazes.
For this recipe, we use white miso (shiro miso), which is mild and slightly sweet. You can substitute yellow miso for a similar flavor, or use red miso for a stronger, saltier kick.
Ingredients
For the sauce:
- 1 tbsp white miso paste
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tsp maple syrup (or agave; honey for non-vegan)
- 1 tsp sesame oil
For the beans:
- 1 lb fresh green beans, trimmed
- 2 tsp avocado oil (or other high-heat neutral oil)
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp toasted sesame seeds
How to Make Miso Green Beans
- Make the glaze – In a small bowl, whisk together miso, soy sauce, maple syrup, and sesame oil. Set aside.
- Cook the beans – Heat a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. Add avocado oil, then green beans. Stir to coat, then spread them out. Cook 3–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until beans are lightly charred and just tender.
- Add garlic – Stir in minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it.
- Glaze & finish – Pour in the miso sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds. Toss until the beans are evenly coated. Remove from heat and serve immediately.
Oil-Free Method
Blanch green beans in boiling salted water until tender-crisp, then toss with the miso sauce (omit sesame oil).
Substitutions & Additions
- Veggie swap: Try asparagus, broccoli, or snap peas.
- Spice: Add red pepper flakes or chili paste for heat.
- Sweetener: Use agave or honey in place of maple syrup.
Serving Ideas
Miso green beans pair perfectly with:
- Plant-based mains like tofu, tempeh, or grain bowls.
- Seafood such as teriyaki salmon or shrimp.
- Asian-inspired meats like soy-glazed chicken or beef stir-fry.
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 87
Storage
Best served fresh, but can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.