Here’s a versatile and delicious stir-fry recipe that you can customize with your favorite vegetables and protein. This basic stir-fry can be made with chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, or just vegetables for a vegetarian option.
Basic Stir-Fry Recipe
Ingredients:
For the Stir-Fry:
- 1 pound protein of choice (chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu), sliced into thin strips
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or sesame oil)
- 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, broccoli, snap peas, carrots, and onions)
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Stir-Fry Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 2 tablespoons oyster sauce (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch (for thickening)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar or apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon honey or sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil (optional, for flavor)
- Red pepper flakes or black pepper (optional, for heat)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), cornstarch, vinegar, honey (if using), sesame oil, and red pepper flakes. Set aside.
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Cook the Protein: Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the sliced protein and cook until browned and cooked through (about 4-6 minutes for chicken or beef, 2-3 minutes for shrimp, and 5-7 minutes for tofu). Remove the protein from the pan and set aside.
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Stir-Fry the Vegetables: In the same skillet or wok, add the remaining tablespoon of oil. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 3-5 minutes, or until they are tender-crisp. Add the minced garlic and ginger, and stir-fry for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
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Combine and Sauce: Return the cooked protein to the skillet with the vegetables. Pour the stir-fry sauce over the mixture and stir well to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and coat the ingredients.
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Season and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. Serve the stir-fry hot over cooked rice, quinoa, or noodles. Garnish with sesame seeds or chopped green onions if desired.
Tips:
- Feel free to customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.
- For a vegetarian or vegan option, use tofu or tempeh as the protein and ensure the sauces are plant-based.
- You can also add nuts (like cashews or peanuts) for extra crunch and flavor.
Enjoy!
This stir-fry recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. It’s a great way to enjoy a healthy meal that’s full of colorful vegetables and your choice of protein!