Classic Vegetable Stir-Fry: A Quick and Healthy Recipe

Vegetable stir-fry is a vibrant, flavorful dish packed with fresh veggies, savory sauces, and an irresistible aroma. Perfect for a quick meal, it’s versatile, customizable, and nutritious. Here’s a step-by-step guide to making a classic vegetable stir-fry.

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Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Fresh Vegetables

• Broccoli: 1 cup, cut into small florets.
• Carrots: 2 medium, sliced thinly.
• Bell Peppers: 1 each of red, yellow, and green, sliced.
• Snow Peas: 1 cup, trimmed.
• Onion: 1 medium, sliced into wedges.

For the Sauce

• Soy Sauce: 3 tablespoons for a salty base.
• Oyster Sauce: 2 tablespoons for depth of flavor.
• Sesame Oil: 1 teaspoon for a nutty aroma.
• Cornstarch: 1 teaspoon mixed with 2 tablespoons of water for thickening.

Additional Ingredients

• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced for aroma.
• Ginger: 1 teaspoon, grated for zing.
• Vegetable Oil: 2 tablespoons for frying.
• Optional: Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish.

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Step 2: Preparing the Vegetables

Cleaning and Chopping

1. Wash all vegetables thoroughly under cold water.
2. Slice or chop them into bite-sized pieces for even cooking.

Timing is Key

1. Group vegetables based on cooking time. (Harder veggies like carrots and broccoli need longer cooking than softer ones like bell peppers.)

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Step 3: Making the Stir-Fry Sauce

Mixing the Ingredients

1. In a small bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, and the cornstarch slurry.
2. Mix well and set aside.

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Step 4: Cooking the Vegetables

Heat the Pan

1. Heat a large wok or skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add vegetable oil and let it get hot but not smoking.

Sauté Garlic and Ginger

1. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil.
2. Stir quickly for 30 seconds until fragrant.

Cook the Vegetables

1. Start with harder vegetables like carrots and broccoli, cooking for 2–3 minutes.
2. Add softer vegetables like bell peppers, onions, and snow peas, cooking for another 2–3 minutes.

 

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Step 5: Adding the Sauce

Combine and Cook

1. Pour the prepared sauce over the vegetables in the pan.
2. Stir well to coat all vegetables evenly.
3. Cook for 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the vegetables.

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Step 6: Serving the Stir-Fry

Plate It Up

1. Transfer the stir-fry to a serving platter.
2. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions for an extra touch.

Pairing Ideas

• Serve over steamed rice, fried rice, or noodles for a hearty meal.
• Enjoy it as a side dish with grilled chicken or tofu for added protein.

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Tips for the Perfect Stir-Fry

Prep Everything First

• Stir-frying is a fast process. Have all ingredients ready before you start cooking.

Don’t Overcrowd the Pan

• Cook in batches if needed to prevent steaming and ensure crisp vegetables.

Customize the Ingredients

• Add mushrooms, baby corn, or zucchini for variety.
• Adjust the spice level with chili flakes or sriracha sauce.

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Conclusion

A classic vegetable stir-fry is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a variety of fresh, nutritious ingredients. Perfect for busy days, this dish is endlessly adaptable to suit your taste and dietary preferences. Try this recipe today for a meal that’s as colorful as it is satisfying!