How to Cook Mung Bean Sprouts Deliciously

Bean sprouts are a commonly used ingredient in Asian cuisine. They are nutritious and low in calories, making them an ideal choice for health-conscious individuals. Mung bean sprouts, also known as green bean sprouts, are a popular variety of bean sprouts that are widely used in Chinese, Korean, and Japanese dishes. Here are some tips on how to cook mung bean sprouts deliciously.

Selecting and Cleaning the Mung Bean Sprouts

The first step in cooking delicious mung bean sprouts is to select and clean them properly. When buying mung bean sprouts, choose those with firm and plump stems and crisp, white roots. Avoid sprouts that are soft, slimy or have an unpleasant smell. To clean the sprouts, rinse them thoroughly under running water to remove any dirt or impurities. Use your hands to gently remove any dead or brown sprouts and discard them.

Stir-Fried Mung Bean Sprouts with Garlic and Sesame Oil

One of the simplest and most delicious ways to cook mung bean sprouts is to stir-fry them with garlic and sesame oil. Here is how to do it:

1. Heat a wok or a large frying pan over high heat. Add 2-3 tablespoons of cooking oil and swirl to coat the pan.
2. When the oil is hot, add 2-3 cloves of minced garlic and stir-fry for 10-15 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add ½ pound of mung bean sprouts and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes until they are evenly coated with oil and slightly wilted.
4. Season the sprouts with 2 teaspoons of soy sauce, ½ teaspoon of sugar, a pinch of salt, and a drizzle of sesame oil. Stir-fry for another 1-2 minutes until the sprouts are tender but still crispy.
5. Transfer the sprouts to a serving dish and garnish with chopped scallions and toasted sesame seeds if desired.

Mung Bean Sprouts Salad with Cucumber and Carrot

If you prefer a lighter and fresher dish, try making a mung bean sprouts salad with cucumber and carrot. Here is how to do it:

1. Rinse 1 pound of mung bean sprouts and drain well.
2. Peel and julienne 1 small cucumber and 1 medium carrot. Place them in a mixing bowl.
3. Add the mung bean sprouts to the bowl and toss well to combine.
4. Make the dressing by whisking together 1 tablespoon of rice vinegar, 1 tablespoon of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of honey, and 1 tablespoon of sesame oil in a small bowl.
5. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss well to coat.
6. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve chilled.