Chinese cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, diverse textures, and colorful presentations. Among the many vegetable dishes, a Chinese chunky veg recipe stands out as a perfect blend of hearty chunks of fresh vegetables tossed in a savory sauce.
This dish is not only quick and easy to prepare but also incredibly satisfying and nutritious. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, this recipe will guide you through making a restaurant-style stir-fried vegetable medley that bursts with umami and a hint of spice.
Chunky vegetables like bell peppers, broccoli, carrots, and mushrooms are stir-fried to perfection, maintaining their crispness and natural sweetness. The sauce, a harmonious mix of soy, garlic, ginger, and a touch of chili, elevates the dish to a new level.
It’s perfect as a standalone meal or as a side to complement your favorite Chinese-inspired dishes. Let’s dive into this colorful, healthy, and delicious Chinese chunky veg recipe that will brighten up your dinner table!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese chunky veg recipe is a versatile, wholesome dish that suits any meal of the day. You’ll love it because it is:
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Nutrient-Packed: Loaded with fresh vegetables that provide fiber, vitamins, and antioxidants.
- Customizable: Easily adaptable with your favorite vegetables or whatever you have on hand.
- Flavorful: The savory and slightly spicy sauce brings out the best in each vegetable.
- Vegan and Gluten-Free Friendly: Perfect for various dietary preferences when using tamari instead of soy sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (canola or peanut oil works great)
- 1 large carrot, peeled and cut into chunky sticks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into large squares
- 1 green bell pepper, cut into large squares
- 1 cup broccoli florets, roughly chopped
- 1 cup cauliflower florets, roughly chopped
- 1 cup mushrooms, quartered (shiitake or button mushrooms)
- 1 medium onion, cut into thick wedges
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1-inch piece fresh ginger, minced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for added umami)
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon chili paste or sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 3 tablespoons water
- 2 green onions, chopped for garnish
- Sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Equipment
- Large wok or deep skillet
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Cutting board
- Mixing bowl for sauce preparation
- Measuring spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula for stirring
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and chop all vegetables into large, chunky pieces. This helps retain a nice texture and prevents them from turning mushy.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce, rice vinegar, chili paste, and the cornstarch-water mixture. Stir well and set aside.
- Heat the wok: Place the wok over high heat and add the vegetable oil. Let it get hot but not smoking.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and ginger to the hot oil and stir-fry for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn them.
- Add the vegetables: Toss in the carrots and onions first, stir-frying for 2 minutes. Then add broccoli, cauliflower, and mushrooms. Stir-fry for another 3-4 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Add bell peppers: Finally, add the red and green bell peppers, stir-fry for 2 minutes more. The bell peppers should remain vibrant and crunchy.
- Pour the sauce: Give the sauce a quick stir (the cornstarch may have settled) and pour it into the wok. Stir continuously to coat all the vegetables evenly. Cook for 1-2 minutes until the sauce thickens and glazes the vegetables.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat, sprinkle chopped green onions and sesame seeds on top, and serve immediately.
Tips & Variations
“Use fresh, seasonal vegetables for the best texture and flavor. Feel free to swap in snap peas, baby corn, or zucchini for a personal twist!”
- Make it vegan: Skip oyster sauce and use mushroom soy sauce or more regular soy sauce instead.
- Add protein: Toss in some tofu cubes or cooked chicken strips for a heartier meal.
- Spice it up: Add fresh sliced chilies or a dash of Szechuan peppercorn powder for a spicy kick.
- Use a non-stick pan: If you don’t have a wok, a large non-stick skillet works perfectly.
- Prep ahead: Chop vegetables in advance and store in the fridge to save time on busy days.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Protein | 4 g |
Carbohydrates | 20 g |
Fiber | 6 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Sodium | 600 mg |
Vitamin A | 120% DV |
Vitamin C | 150% DV |
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese chunky veg dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine rice or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside fried rice or noodles to create a more filling dinner.
For a protein boost, consider pairing it with Pcos Chicken Recipes or a simple tofu stir-fry.
For an appetizer or side, try complementing this with the Pickled Cherry Pepper Recipe to add a tangy contrast. If you want to explore more vegetable recipes, the Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe is a fantastic choice.
Conclusion
This Chinese chunky veg recipe is a delightful way to enjoy a variety of fresh vegetables in a single dish that’s both flavorful and nourishing. Its quick preparation time and simple ingredients make it ideal for anyone looking to add more plant-based meals to their diet without sacrificing taste or texture.
With just a few pantry staples, you can whip up this vibrant stir-fry as a satisfying weeknight dinner or a colorful side to your favorite mains. Plus, the recipe’s flexibility means you can customize it to your liking, whether you prefer it spicy, mild, or packed with extra protein.
Next time you want a wholesome, easy, and delicious vegetable dish, give this Chinese chunky veg recipe a try. Don’t forget to check out other tasty recipes like the Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe for a hearty meal option or the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for a sweet treat to finish off your dinner.
📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Chunky Veg Recipe
Description: A vibrant and healthy stir-fry packed with chunky vegetables and classic Chinese flavors. Quick to prepare and perfect as a side or main dish.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 large carrot, cut into chunks
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon water
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and onion; stir-fry for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add carrot and broccoli; stir-fry for 3 minutes.
- Add bell pepper and snap peas; cook for another 2 minutes.
- Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, sesame oil, black pepper, and water in a bowl.
- Pour sauce over vegetables and stir well to coat.
- Cook for an additional 2 minutes until vegetables are tender-crisp.
- Serve hot as a side or main dish.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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