On medium-high, heat a large skillet with oil.
Drop in the green beans, potatoes, garlic, soy sauce, and water.
Put a lid on and turn the temperature down to low and let the beans cook away.
Stir gently after about 10 minutes.
If you are adding meat to the dish, add the cooked meat at this point.
Cook for another 10 minutes or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
Serve on top of a bowl of rice.