To prepare runner beans, follow these steps:
- Trim and de-string : Cut off the ends (top and tail) of the beans. Remove the tough strings along the sides by running a vegetable peeler or your fingers down the edges to make them tender and easier to eat
- Slice : Slice the beans thinly, preferably at an angle, for an attractive presentation and even cooking. You can cut them into fine strips or small pieces depending on your recipe
- Cooking :
- Boil: Place the sliced beans in boiling salted water and cook for about 3-7 minutes until tender but still crisp. Younger, thinner beans take less time, around 3-4 minutes, while thicker or older beans may need up to 7 minutes
* Steam: Alternatively, steam the beans for about 3-4 minutes for a tender but slightly crunchy texture
* Stir-fry: You can also stir-fry them for 3-5 minutes if preferred
- Serving suggestions :
- Toss cooked beans with butter or a garlic and onion butter sauce with herbs like rosemary for extra flavor
* Use them in stews, salads, or as a side vegetable
* To keep their bright green color when serving cold, plunge cooked beans into cold water immediately after boiling
Runner beans are versatile and can be used in various dishes, from simple buttered sides to slow-cooked ragù or salads
. In summary, preparation involves trimming, de-stringing, slicing, then boiling or steaming until tender but still crisp, followed by seasoning or incorporating into your dish
