Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and quick dinner? Look no further! This easy vegetable stir-fry recipe is packed with vibrant flavors and fresh vegetables, making it a perfect weeknight meal. It's a fantastic option for homemade cooking, offering a delicious and healthy alternative to takeout. This recipe is perfect for those seeking quick dinner ideas and best recipes, showcasing the beauty of simple Chinese dishes. Let's dive in!
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 small onion, thinly sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 green bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup sliced carrots
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can of baby corn, drained
- 1/2 cup vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon cornstarch
- 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
- Optional: 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
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Prep the Vegetables: Begin by washing and prepping all your vegetables. Having everything chopped and ready to go makes the cooking process much smoother and faster. This is especially helpful for busy weeknights.
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Stir-fry the Aromatics: Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat. Add the sliced onion and cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
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Add the Vegetables: Add the bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and snow peas to the wok. Stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, or until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
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Simmer the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the vegetable broth, soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, cornstarch, and ginger. Pour the sauce over the vegetables in the wok.
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Combine and Thicken: Bring the mixture to a simmer, stirring constantly, until the sauce has thickened slightly, about 1-2 minutes. Stir in the drained baby corn.
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Serve and Enjoy: Serve the stir-fry hot, garnished with chopped scallions, if desired. This dish pairs perfectly with steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Don't overcrowd the pan: If you have a large amount of vegetables, it's best to stir-fry them in batches to ensure they cook evenly and don't steam.
- High heat is key: Using medium-high heat helps to create a nice sear on the vegetables, keeping them crisp and flavorful.
- Taste and adjust: Before serving, taste the stir-fry and adjust the seasoning according to your preference. You might want to add more soy sauce, rice vinegar, or ginger.
Variations:
- Protein Power: Add cooked chicken, tofu, shrimp, or beef for a more substantial meal. Adding protein makes this a great option for a complete and satisfying healthy meal.
- Spice it Up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Other Vegetables: Feel free to substitute your favorite vegetables, such as mushrooms, zucchini, or asparagus.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Around 200-250 (depending on variations and serving size)
- Protein: 5-7 grams
- Fat: 8-10 grams
- Carbohydrates: 25-30 grams
This delicious and easy Chinese vegetable stir-fry is a perfect example of healthy meals and easy recipes that are both satisfying and quick to make. Enjoy this simple yet flavorful dish any night of the week! It's a fantastic addition to your repertoire of best recipes and offers a truly delightful culinary experience.