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Green Beans with Benne and Sorghum

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

This vibrant vegan side dish elevates simple green beans into something truly special. By combining the deep, earthy sweetness of sorghum syrup with the nutty crunch of benne seeds, you create a complex flavour profile that balances salty and sweet notes perfectly. The beans are first blanched and then roasted at a high temperature to achieve a beautiful char, ensuring they remain tender while developing a smoky depth that pairs beautifully with the umami-rich soy dressing.

Perfect as a nutritious accompaniment to a Sunday roast or a focal point of a plant-based spread, this recipe is as versatile as it is healthy. The dressing can be prepared up to five days in advance and kept in the fridge, making it an excellent choice for stress-free entertaining or quick midweek meals. Serve these beans warm to fully appreciate the aromatic cumin and toasted seeds.

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Ingredients for Green Beans with Benne and Sorghum

  • 900g green beans, trimmed

  • Kosher salt

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • Freshly ground black pepper

  • 2 tablespoons reduced-sodium soy sauce

  • 2 tablespoons sorghum syrup or 1 tablespoon honey

  • 2 teaspoons benne seeds or sesame seeds

  • 1/4 teaspoons ground cumin

How to make Green Beans with Benne and Sorghum

Preheat oven to 232°C. Cook beans in a large pot of boiling salted water until crisp-tender, about 2 minutes. Drain, transfer to a bowl of ice water, and let cool. Drain and pat dry.

Toss beans and oil on a rimmed baking sheet; season with salt and pepper. Roast, tossing occasionally, until tender and lightly charred in spots, 10–15 minutes.

Meanwhile, whisk soy sauce, sorghum, benne seeds, and cumin in a large bowl; season with salt and pepper. Add warm beans and toss to coat.

DO AHEAD: Dressing can be made 5 days ahead. Cover and chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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