How to Cook Chinese-style Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables
Chinese-style stir-fried mixed vegetables are a delightful and healthy dish that can be enjoyed on their own or as a side to complement your main courses. With a plethora of colorful vegetables and simple seasonings, this dish is both quick and easy to prepare. Below, you'll find a step-by-step guide on how to create this flavorful recipe.
Ingredients
- 2 cups of mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, broccoli, and snap peas)
- 2 tablespoons of vegetable oil
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 inch piece of ginger, minced
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon of oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vegetables
Start by washing and chopping your selected vegetables into bite-sized pieces. It’s essential to cut them into uniform sizes to ensure even cooking.
2. Heat the Oil
In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke.
3. Sauté Aromatics
Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil. Sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor.
4. Add the Mixed Vegetables
Introduce the chopped vegetables to the pan. Stir-fry for approximately 3-5 minutes, or until they start to soften yet remain crisp. Stir continuously to ensure even cooking.
5. Season the Dish
Drizzle the soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) over the vegetables. Stir well to coat the veggies evenly with the sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary with salt and pepper.
6. Finish with Sesame Oil
Once the vegetables are cooked to your preference, remove the pan from heat. Drizzle the sesame oil over the stir-fry and toss to combine.
7. Serve
Transfer your stir-fried mixed vegetables to a serving dish. For an added touch, sprinkle sesame seeds on top before serving.
Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry
- Use a variety of colorful vegetables for a more appealing presentation and enhanced nutrition.
- Ensure all ingredients are prepped before starting to stir-fry, as the cooking process is quick.
- Do not overcrowd the pan; cooking in batches if necessary will yield better results.
- You can add protein options, such as tofu or chicken, to make this dish a complete meal.
Cooking Chinese-style stir-fried mixed vegetables is not only quick but also versatile and delicious. Enjoy this vibrant dish as a side or as a healthy main course for a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavors and nutrients.