Shrimp with Spicy Garlic Sauce

(serves 4)

• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon rice wine vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sugar
• 3 gloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 teaspoons chili sauce (I recommend Sambal Oelek)
• 2 teaspoons cornstarch, dissolved in 4 teaspoons cold water
• 1 1/2 pounds uncooked large shrimp
• 6 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
• toasted sesame seeds, for garnish

1. Combine the first seven ingredients (soy sauce through chili sauce) in a small bowl and whisk to combine.  Add this sauce mixture to a small saucepan set over medium heat and bring it to a gentle boil. Let the mixture simmer for 2 minutes.
2. Stir in the dissolved cornstarch and stir, letting the mixture return to a simmer for about a minute, or until it has become glossy and thick enough to coat the back of a spoon.
3. In a large pot fitted with a steamer basket set over simmering water, steam the green beans and shrimp until the beans are tender and the shrimp have turned an opaque shade of pink.
4. Pour the sauce mixture over the steamed shrimp and green beans and toss to combine. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve!