Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a burst of vibrant flavors? The Spicy Eight Treasures Stir Fry is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will transport you straight to the heart of Chinese cuisine! With its colorful medley of fresh vegetables and a kick of chili, this dish is perfect for those seeking a quick yet satisfying dinner option. In just 35 minutes, you can whip up a dish that is both healthy and indulgent, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or impressive dinner parties. Dive into this recipe and discover how to create a stir fry that’s as delightful to the eyes as it is to the palate!
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Chinese
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 cup sliced bell peppers
- 1 cup snow peas
- 1 cup carrots, julienned
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1/2 cup water chestnuts, sliced
- 2 tablespoons chili paste
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Begin by preparing all the vegetables. Slice the bell peppers into thin strips, julienne the carrots, and cut the broccoli into small florets. Rinse the snow peas and set them aside. Make sure the water chestnuts are sliced and ready to use.
- In a large skillet or wok, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Allow the oil to get hot but not smoking, as this will help to achieve a nice stir-fry.
- Add the sliced bell peppers, julienned carrots, and broccoli florets to the skillet. Stir-fry the vegetables for about 3-4 minutes, until they begin to soften but still retain some crunch.
- Next, add the snow peas and sliced water chestnuts to the skillet. Continue to stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes, ensuring that all the vegetables are mixed well and heated through.
- In a small bowl, combine the chili paste and soy sauce. Stir this mixture into the vegetables, making sure to coat them evenly. If you prefer a spicier dish, feel free to add more chili paste according to your taste.
- Season the stir-fry with salt to taste. Stir everything together and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to slightly thicken.
- Once the vegetables are cooked to your desired tenderness, remove the skillet from heat. Serve the Spicy Eight Treasures Stir Fry hot over steamed rice or noodles for a complete meal.
- Enjoy your delicious and vibrant Spicy Eight Treasures Stir Fry with family and friends!
Tips
- Prep Ahead: To make the cooking process even quicker, chop all your vegetables ahead of time. You can store them in the refrigerator for a day or two before cooking.
- High Heat is Key: Make sure your skillet or wok is hot enough before adding the oil and vegetables. This helps to achieve that perfect stir-fry texture—crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Customize Your Spice Level: Adjust the amount of chili paste based on your heat preference. Start with less and add more if you like it spicier!
- Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding sliced chicken, beef, or tofu to the stir fry. Just cook the protein first, then remove it from the pan before adding the vegetables.
- Serve with Style: For an elevated presentation, serve the stir fry over a bed of fluffy steamed rice or noodles, and garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions.
- Keep it Moving: Stir constantly while cooking to ensure even cooking and to prevent any ingredients from burning.
- Experiment with Veggies: Feel free to swap out any of the vegetables for your favorites or whatever you have on hand. Zucchini, mushrooms, or snap peas make great additions!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 120kcal
Carbohydrates: 15g
Protein: 4g
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Cholesterol: 0mg