Chinese stir fry vegetables are a vibrant, healthy, and flavorful way to enjoy a medley of fresh produce. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a versatile side dish, this stir fry recipe offers a perfect balance of crisp textures and savory sauces that will delight your taste buds.
Stir frying is a fast cooking method that locks in nutrients and bright colors, making your vegetables not only delicious but also visually appealing. The best part?
You can customize this recipe with your favorite veggies or whatever you have on hand, making it both economical and adaptable.
This recipe brings together the perfect harmony of garlic, ginger, and soy sauce, creating a fragrant base that enhances the natural sweetness of the vegetables. It’s a wonderful dish to serve on its own, alongside steamed rice, or paired with your favorite protein.
Ready to add a splash of color and flavor to your dinner table? Let’s dive into this simple yet impressive Chinese stir fry veg recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your cooking repertoire.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Chinese stir fry vegetable recipe is a celebration of freshness and simplicity. It’s quick to prepare, taking less than 20 minutes from start to finish, which makes it perfect for busy lifestyles.
The vibrant mix of crunchy bell peppers, tender broccoli, and snap peas paired with a savory sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor and texture.
What’s more, stir frying is a versatile cooking technique that retains the nutrients of your vegetables, supporting a healthy diet. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen beginner, this recipe is easy to follow and delivers delicious results every time.
Plus, it’s vegan and gluten-free (when using tamari or gluten-free soy sauce), making it inclusive for a variety of dietary needs. You’ll also find inspiration for easy modifications and serving ideas further down, so keep reading!
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil (or peanut oil for authentic flavor)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, finely grated
- 1 medium red bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 medium yellow bell pepper, thinly sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas, trimmed
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 small zucchini, sliced into half-moons
- 3 green onions, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional for non-vegetarian)
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cornstarch, mixed with 2 tablespoons water (slurry)
- 1/4 cup vegetable broth or water
- Sesame seeds for garnish
Equipment
- Wok or large non-stick skillet
- Cutting board and sharp knife
- Measuring spoons and cups
- Mixing bowl
- Wooden spoon or heat-resistant spatula
- Small bowl for cornstarch slurry
Instructions
- Prepare the vegetables: Wash and dry all vegetables thoroughly. Slice the bell peppers thinly, cut the broccoli into small florets, trim the snap peas, julienne the carrot, slice the zucchini into half-moons, and chop the green onions.
- Make the sauce: In a small bowl, combine the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), sesame oil, and vegetable broth. Stir well and set aside.
- Heat the wok: Place your wok or skillet over medium-high heat and add the vegetable oil. Allow it to heat until shimmering but not smoking.
- Sauté aromatics: Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the hot oil. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant but not burnt.
- Add vegetables: Toss in the carrots, broccoli, and bell peppers first as they take longer to cook. Stir-fry for 3-4 minutes until they start to soften but still retain a crunch.
- Add remaining veggies: Add the snap peas, zucchini, and most of the green onions (reserve some for garnish). Continue stir-frying for another 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in sauce: Give the sauce a quick stir and pour it over the vegetables. Toss everything well to coat.
- Thicken sauce: Stir the cornstarch slurry once more, then drizzle it into the wok. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and glazes the vegetables, about 1 minute.
- Season and finish: Sprinkle the red pepper flakes if using, taste for seasoning, and adjust soy sauce if needed.
- Serve: Remove from heat and transfer the stir fry to a serving dish. Garnish with sesame seeds and remaining green onions.
Tips & Variations
“For the best stir fry, always use fresh, crisp vegetables and avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure even cooking and caramelization.”
- Protein boost: Add tofu, tempeh, or cooked chicken/shrimp for a heartier meal.
- Veggie swaps: Try mushrooms, baby corn, bok choy, or water chestnuts for different textures and flavors.
- Spice it up: Add freshly chopped chili, Szechuan peppercorns, or a drizzle of chili oil.
- Gluten-free: Substitute soy sauce with tamari or coconut aminos.
- Make it nutty: Toss in toasted cashews or peanuts for crunch.
- For a sweeter touch: Add a teaspoon of honey or maple syrup to the sauce.
Nutrition Facts
Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
---|---|
Calories | 150 kcal |
Carbohydrates | 18 g |
Protein | 4 g |
Fat | 7 g |
Fiber | 5 g |
Sodium | 650 mg |
Serving Suggestions
This Chinese stir fry vegetable dish pairs beautifully with steamed jasmine or brown rice for a wholesome meal. You can also serve it alongside fried rice or noodles to make it more filling.
For a more protein-rich dinner, consider adding grilled chicken, tofu, or shrimp on the side. It also works well as a vibrant topping for grain bowls or as a side dish to complement classic recipes like Bariatric Meatloaf Recipe.
If you love creative vegetable dishes, be sure to check out Thelma Sanders Squash Recipe for another inspiring vegetable-forward meal.
Conclusion
This Chinese stir fry vegetable recipe is a fantastic way to enjoy a colorful, nutrient-rich meal any day of the week. It’s quick, easy, and adaptable, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something wholesome without the fuss.
The combination of fresh veggies and savory sauce hits all the right notes—crisp, flavorful, and satisfying.
With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, you can bring the vibrant flavors of Chinese cuisine right into your kitchen. Don’t hesitate to experiment with different vegetables or add your favorite proteins to make it uniquely yours.
For a refreshing contrast, try pairing your stir fry with a sweet treat like the Peanut Butter Gelato Recipe for dessert!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious, healthy stir fry!
📖 Recipe Card: Chinese Stir Fry Veg Recipe
Description: A quick and healthy Chinese-style vegetable stir fry packed with flavor and vibrant colors. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course.
Prep Time: PT15M
Cook Time: PT10M
Total Time: PT25M
Servings: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 cup broccoli florets
- 1 cup snap peas
- 1 medium carrot, julienned
- 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons water
Instructions
- Heat vegetable oil in a wok over medium-high heat.
- Add garlic and ginger; stir-fry for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add bell pepper, broccoli, snap peas, carrot, and mushrooms.
- Stir-fry vegetables for 5-6 minutes until tender-crisp.
- Mix soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil; pour over vegetables.
- Add cornstarch slurry and cook for another 1-2 minutes until sauce thickens.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles.
Nutrition: Calories: 150 kcal | Protein: 4 g | Fat: 7 g | Carbs: 18 g
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