Name: Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 1 h 25 min
Yield: 2
Cuisine: Asian
Ingredients: 1 cup dried mung beans; ¼ cup Vegetable Oil; 1 green onion; 1 Thai chile pepper; 1 pinch salt

Looking for a quick, healthy, and crunchy snack? This mung bean recipe delivers the perfect blend of crispiness and spice. It's an easy-to-make treat that's great for any occasion.

Photos of Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe

When heading to the supermarket, you might need to keep an eye out for mung beans. These are not as common as other beans, and you may find them in the dried beans section or a specialty Asian foods aisle. Also, ensure you grab a thai chile pepper as it adds a distinctive spicy kick to the snack.

Ingredients For Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe

mung beans: Small, round beans that are often used in Asian cuisine. They need to be soaked before cooking.

vegetable oil: Used for frying the mung beans until they become crispy.

green onion: Adds a fresh, mild onion flavor to the snack.

thai chile pepper: Brings a spicy heat to the dish, enhancing its flavor profile.

salt: A pinch of salt is added to balance and bring out all the flavors.

One reader, Carlos Trammell says:

This crunchy mung bean snack recipe is fantastic! The beans turn out perfectly crispy and the combination of green onion and Thai chile pepper adds a delightful kick. It's a simple yet flavorful snack that's hard to resist. Highly recommend!

Carlos Trammell

Techniques Required

How to soak mung beans: Place the dried mung beans into a large container and cover them with several inches of cool water. Let them soak for 1 hour. How to dry mung beans: After soaking, drain the mung beans and spread them out onto a flat surface. Pat gently with a paper towel to blot some of the water, then allow them to air-dry for 15 minutes. How to cook mung beans: Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir the mung beans in the hot oil for about 5 minutes until they are evenly browned and crunchy. How to mix ingredients: After cooking, drain the beans and transfer them to a mixing bowl. Add the chopped chile pepper, green onion, and a pinch of salt, then stir to coat.

How To Make Crunchy Mung Bean Snack

Nail your craving for salty snacks with this Thai crunchy mung bean! Fried mung beans are flavored with chile pepper and salt for a healthy and tasty bite.

Preparation: 10 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Soak Time: 1 hour

Total: 1 hour 25 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

1cupdried mung beans
¼cupvegetable oil,or more as needed
1green onion,sliced
1Thai chile pepper,or more to taste, sliced
1pinchsalt

Instructions

Put the mung beans into a large container and cover with several inches of cool water.
Soak the beans for 1 hour.
Drain the mung beans and spread them out onto a flat surface. Pat gently with paper towel to blot some of the water, then air-dry the beans for 15 minutes.
Heat the oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook and stir beans in hot oil for about 5 minutes until evenly browned and crunchy.
Drain the beans and transfer to a mixing bowl. Add chile pepper, green onion, and salt, then stir to coat.
Serve and enjoy.

Nutrition

Calories: 618.07kcal
Fat: 29.30g
Saturated Fat: 2.20g
Trans Fat: 0.21g
Monounsaturated Fat: 20.33g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 5.24g
Carbohydrates: 67.34g
Fiber: 17.40g
Sugar: 8.20g
Protein: 25.25g
Sodium: 92.43mg
Calcium: 145.22mg
Potassium: 1382.78mg
Iron: 7.32mg
Vitamin A: 20.76µg
Vitamin C: 38.71mg

Technique Tip for This Recipe

To achieve the perfect crunch, ensure the mung beans are thoroughly dried before frying. Any residual moisture can cause the oil to splatter and prevent the beans from becoming evenly crispy.

How to Save Time Making This Snack

Pre-soak the beans: Soak the mung beans overnight instead of just one hour to save time on the day of preparation.

Use paper towels: Pat the mung beans dry thoroughly with paper towels to reduce air-drying time.

Pre-chop ingredients: Chop the green onion and thai chile pepper in advance to streamline the mixing process.

Batch cooking: Cook a larger batch of mung beans and store them for later use to save time on future snacks.

Use a salad spinner: Quickly dry the mung beans using a salad spinner to cut down on air-drying time.

Substitute Ingredients For Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe

dried mung beans - Substitute with dried chickpeas: Chickpeas have a similar texture and can be roasted to achieve a crunchy snack.
vegetable oil - Substitute with olive oil: Olive oil provides a similar cooking medium and adds a slightly different but pleasant flavor.
green onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots offer a similar mild onion flavor and can be used in the same way.
thai chile pepper - Substitute with jalapeño pepper: Jalapeños provide a comparable level of heat and can be used to maintain the spicy element.
salt - Substitute with soy sauce: Soy sauce adds saltiness along with a depth of umami flavor.

Best Way to Present This Snack

Serve smaller portion sizes: Present the crunchy mung beans in a small, elegant bowl or a miniature cast iron skillet to emphasize the snack's gourmet appeal.
Use decoration: Garnish the dish with finely chopped green onion and thin slices of thai chile pepper arranged artfully around the beans to add a pop of color and visual interest.
Add texture contrast: Place the crunchy mung beans on a bed of crispy fried shallots or microgreens to provide a contrasting texture and elevate the dish's complexity.
Incorporate dipping sauce: Serve a small side of tangy yogurt dip or spicy sriracha mayo in a separate, stylish ramekin to complement the flavors and offer a creamy contrast.
Use high-quality plating: Present the dish on a sleek, modern plate with a matte finish to highlight the vibrant colors and textures of the mung beans and garnishes.
Add a touch of luxury: Sprinkle a few flakes of sea salt or truffle salt over the crunchy mung beans just before serving to add a hint of sophistication and enhance the flavor profile.
Create height: Stack the mung beans in a small mound or use a ring mold to create a neat, cylindrical shape, adding height and dimension to the presentation.
Incorporate edible flowers: Add a few delicate edible flowers around the plate to bring a touch of elegance and a burst of color, making the dish visually stunning.
Use a contrasting backdrop: Place the plate on a dark, textured placemat or a wooden board to create a striking contrast that makes the colors of the mung beans and garnishes pop.
Finish with a drizzle: Lightly drizzle a few drops of chili oil or herb-infused oil over the mung beans just before serving to add a final layer of flavor and a glossy finish.

Best Tools for This Recipe

Large container: Used to soak the mung beans in water for an hour.
Flat surface: Needed to spread out the mung beans for air-drying.
Paper towel: Utilized to blot some of the water from the mung beans.
Skillet: Essential for heating the oil and cooking the mung beans until they are crunchy.
Mixing bowl: Used to combine the cooked mung beans with the chile pepper, green onion, and salt.
Stirring spoon: Necessary for stirring the mung beans in the skillet and mixing them with the other ingredients in the bowl.
Knife: Required for chopping the green onion and thai chile pepper.
Cutting board: Provides a surface for chopping the green onion and thai chile pepper.

How To Store / Freeze This Snack

Allow the mung beans to cool completely before storing. This helps maintain their crunchy texture and prevents condensation from making them soggy.
Transfer the cooled beans into an airtight container. A glass jar with a tight-fitting lid or a resealable plastic bag works well.
Store the container in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The pantry or a kitchen cabinet is ideal.
For longer storage, place the airtight container in the refrigerator. This can help extend the shelf life and keep the beans fresh for up to two weeks.
If you want to freeze the snack, spread the beans out on a baking sheet in a single layer and place them in the freezer for about an hour. This prevents them from clumping together.
Once the beans are frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. Label with the date to keep track of freshness.
When ready to enjoy, allow the beans to thaw at room temperature for a few minutes. You can also reheat them in a skillet over low heat to restore their crunchiness.
Avoid storing the beans in humid or warm areas, as this can cause them to lose their crisp texture and become stale.
If the beans lose their crunch over time, you can refresh them by heating them in a dry skillet for a few minutes until they regain their crispiness.

How To Reheat Leftovers

Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mung beans evenly on a baking sheet. Bake for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they regain their crunchiness.
Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a small amount of vegetable oil. Toss in the mung beans and stir for 3-4 minutes until they are heated through and crispy again.
Use an air fryer set to 350°F (175°C). Place the mung beans in the basket in a single layer. Air fry for 3-5 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through to ensure even reheating.
For a quick microwave method, spread the mung beans on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, checking and stirring every 30 seconds to avoid overcooking and ensure they stay crunchy.
If you have a toaster oven, preheat it to 350°F (175°C). Spread the mung beans on the toaster oven tray and toast for 5-7 minutes, stirring halfway through to maintain their crunch.
For a stovetop method, heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add the mung beans and stir continuously for 3-4 minutes until they are warmed and crunchy.
If you prefer a steam method, place the mung beans in a steamer basket over boiling water for 1-2 minutes. This method is less ideal for maintaining crunch but works if you prefer a softer texture.

Random Fact About This Recipe

A random fact about this recipe is that mung beans are a great source of plant-based protein and fiber. They are also rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Is This Snack Economical for Home Cooking?

This crunchy mung bean snack recipe is highly cost-effective. Mung beans are inexpensive, and the other ingredients like vegetable oil, green onion, and thai chile pepper are also budget-friendly. For a household of 4, the approximate cost is around $3-$4 USD. Overall Verdict: 9/10.

Crunchy Mung Bean Snack: Healthy or Unhealthy?

This crunchy mung bean snack is a delightful treat, but let's analyze its health quotient. Mung beans are a fantastic source of protein, fiber, and essential nutrients like folate and magnesium. However, the recipe calls for ¼ cup of vegetable oil, which adds a significant amount of fat and calories. Additionally, frying the beans can reduce some of their nutritional benefits. The inclusion of green onion and Thai chile pepper adds a nice kick and some vitamins, but the overall healthiness could be improved.

Reduce oil: Use less oil or opt for a healthier oil like olive or avocado oil.
Air-fry or bake: Instead of frying, air-fry or bake the mung beans to retain their nutritional value and reduce fat content.
Add more veggies: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or carrots for added nutrients and fiber.
Season creatively: Use herbs and spices like cumin, paprika, or garlic powder to enhance flavor without adding extra calories.
Lower sodium: Use a minimal amount of salt or substitute with a salt-free seasoning blend to keep sodium levels in check.

By making these adjustments, you can enjoy a healthier version of this crunchy mung bean snack without compromising on flavor.

Editor's Thoughts on This Recipe

This crunchy mung bean snack recipe is a delightful blend of simplicity and flavor. The soaking and air-drying steps ensure the beans achieve the perfect texture, while the quick frying in vegetable oil brings out a satisfying crunch. The addition of green onion and Thai chile pepper adds a fresh, spicy kick that elevates the dish. A pinch of salt ties everything together, making it an irresistible snack. Overall, it's a quick, easy, and flavorful treat that can be enjoyed on its own or as a topping for salads and other dishes.

Enhance Your Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Spicy Mango Salsa: Spicy Mango Salsa: Add a burst of tropical sweetness and a hint of heat to your crunchy mung bean snack with this vibrant mango salsa. The juicy mango chunks, combined with red onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime, create a refreshing contrast that will tantalize your taste buds.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Garlic Parmesan Roasted Broccoli: Elevate your appetizer game with this savory side. The broccoli florets are roasted to perfection with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese and a touch of garlic. The crispy edges and cheesy goodness make it a delightful companion to your mung bean snack.

Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: Lemon Herb Quinoa Salad: This light and zesty quinoa salad is the perfect complement to your crunchy mung beans. Tossed with fresh herbs, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette, it adds a refreshing and nutritious element to your appetizer spread.

Cucumber Mint Raita: Cucumber Mint Raita: Cool down the heat of the Thai chile pepper with this creamy and refreshing yogurt dip. The cucumber and mint provide a soothing contrast, making it an ideal dip for your crunchy mung beans.

Sweet Potato Fries: Sweet Potato Fries: Add a touch of sweetness and a satisfying crunch with these oven-baked sweet potato fries. Lightly seasoned with sea salt and a hint of paprika, they offer a delightful balance to the savory mung bean snack.

Other Alternative Recipes Similar to This Snack

Spicy Roasted Chickpeas: Transform your pantry staple into a crunchy, protein-packed snack. Toss chickpeas with olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and a pinch of cayenne. Roast until golden and crispy. Perfect for munching on the go or adding a crunch to salads.

Crispy Kale Chips: Turn leafy greens into a delightful crunchy treat. Massage kale leaves with olive oil and sprinkle with sea salt. Bake until crisp and enjoy a healthy, guilt-free snack that’s perfect for any time of the day.

Baked Zucchini Fries: Swap out traditional fries for these veggie delights. Coat zucchini sticks in a mixture of breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Bake until golden brown and serve with a side of marinara sauce for dipping.

Sweet and Spicy Almonds: Elevate your nut game with this flavorful snack. Toss almonds with a blend of honey, cayenne pepper, and a touch of sea salt. Roast until caramelized and enjoy a sweet and spicy crunch.

Garlic Parmesan Roasted Cauliflower: Turn cauliflower into a savory snack with a burst of flavor. Toss cauliflower florets with olive oil, minced garlic, and grated Parmesan cheese. Roast until tender and golden, then sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.

Suggested Main Courses and Desserts for This Snack

Main Courses:

Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken: Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavors of lemon and fresh herbs with tender, juicy chicken breasts. Marinate the chicken in a mixture of lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a blend of herbs like rosemary and thyme. Grill the chicken to perfection, ensuring a beautiful char and a burst of flavor in every bite. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both healthy and satisfying.

Spaghetti Carbonara: Spaghetti Carbonara is a classic Italian dish that brings together the rich flavors of pancetta, eggs, and Parmesan cheese. Cook the spaghetti until al dente, then toss it in a creamy sauce made from beaten eggs and cheese, with crispy pancetta adding a delightful crunch. The heat from the pasta cooks the eggs to create a silky, luxurious sauce. Finish with a generous sprinkle of black pepper and a handful of fresh parsley for a touch of color and freshness. This dish is perfect for a comforting yet elegant dinner.

Desserts:

Chocolate Lava Cake: Imagine a warm, molten chocolate center oozing out as you cut into a delicate, rich cake. This decadent treat is perfect for those who crave an indulgent chocolate experience. Serve it with a scoop of vanilla ice cream or a dollop of whipped cream for an extra layer of luxury. The contrast between the warm, gooey center and the cool, creamy topping will leave your guests in awe.

Lemon Meringue Pie: Picture a buttery, flaky crust filled with a tangy lemon curd and topped with a cloud of toasted meringue. This dessert is a perfect balance of sweet and tart, with a light, airy texture that melts in your mouth. The golden-brown meringue adds a touch of elegance, making it an ideal choice for any special occasion. Serve it chilled for a refreshing end to your meal.

Why trust this Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe:

This crunchy mung bean snack recipe is a delightful blend of textures and flavors, perfect for a quick and healthy treat. The mung beans are soaked to achieve the perfect crunch, while the thai chile pepper and green onion add a burst of freshness and spice. With simple ingredients and easy steps, this recipe is both accessible and delicious. Trust in the combination of wholesome mung beans and the expertise behind this recipe to deliver a satisfying snack.

Want to share your own favorite crunchy snack recipes using mung beans or other ingredients? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our cooking forum and join the discussion about the Crunchy Mung Bean Snack Recipe and more!

FAQ:

How long do the mung beans need to soak?

The mung beans need to soak for about 1 hour. This helps soften them up a bit before cooking.

Can I use a different type of oil?

Yes, you can use other oils like olive oil or canola oil if you prefer. Just make sure it has a high enough smoke point for frying.

How spicy is this snack with the Thai chile pepper?

The Thai chile pepper adds a nice kick, but it's not overwhelmingly spicy. If you're sensitive to heat, you can use less or remove the seeds.

Do I need to air-dry the beans for exactly 15 minutes?

The 15 minutes is a good guideline, but the key is to make sure the beans are mostly dry before frying. If they still seem wet, give them a bit more time.

Can I store leftovers, and how should I do it?

Yes, you can store leftovers in an airtight container. They should stay crunchy for a couple of days, but they're best enjoyed fresh.