Category: Vegetables

Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry: A Flavorful & Healthy Delight

Tom
Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry in a bowl with chopsticks

Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry: A Flavorful & Healthy Delight

Are you in search of a delightful and palate-pleasing stir-fry that is bursting with flavors? Look no further! Today, I’m excited to share with you a fantastic recipe that will tickle your taste buds and make your dinner table a feast of colors and aromas. Introducing the Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry. This is absolutely one of the best dishes I’ve ever made and it rivals anything you would get in a restaurant!

This stir fry is not just an explosion of taste but also a healthy and nutritious meal option. It is packed with an array of vibrant vegetables (and you can use and substitute whatever you have in the frig) that not only adds a burst of color to your plate but also provides essential vitamins, minerals and dietary fibers. The star of the show is the Napa cabbage (although you can substitute any type of cabbage you have on hand). Its delicate texture and mild, slightly sweet flavor make it an excellent base for absorbing the delectable sauce.

Speaking of sauce, the secret to this stir fry’s tantalizing taste lies in the well-balanced blend of spices and savory ingredients. The combination of hoisin sauce, light soy sauce, dark soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, sesame oil, and the spicy kick of chili garlic oil (I love Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp for this) creates a symphony of flavors that will leave your taste buds craving more.

This Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry also allows for some customization, making it a versatile dish for your family and friends. If you want to amp up the protein content, feel free to add cooked chicken, pork, or shrimp to the mix. You can also throw in some bok choy to add another layer of texture and taste to the dish.

The best part about this stir fry is how quick and easy it is to make. In just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying and wholesome meal ready to serve. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this recipe is straightforward to follow, ensuring your success in the kitchen.

In addition to being incredibly delicious and a breeze to make, this stir fry proves to be a brilliant tactic to win over even the pickiest eaters, enticing them to relish a variety of nutritious vegetables. The combination of the savory sauce and perfectly cooked vegetables might just convert even the most stubborn vegetable skeptic into a fan.

So, the next time you find yourself craving a flavorful and nutritious meal that’s a cinch to prepare, remember the Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry. It’s a recipe that not only delights the senses but also brings joy to the dinner table as everyone relishes the incredible taste of this colorful stir fry. Enjoy!

Btw, everything you need for any of my Asian recipes (like my Soy-Marinated Eggs, Pork Loin, Bok Choy and Shiitake Mushrooms), is available at Weee!, the best online source for all Asian ingredients. (Use this link to get $20 off your first two orders). They deliver in a day or two (and FREE delivery with a minimum purchase), and their prices are better than what you’ll find on Amazon or in brick-and-mortar stores.

Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry in a bowl with chopsticks
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Spicy Garlic Cabbage and Vegetable Stir Fry

This quick and easy stir fry is a colorful blend of Napa cabbage, snap peas, carrots, and more, perfectly coated in a savory, spicy sauce. A healthy and satisfying meal for any occasion!

Course Main Course
Cuisine Asian
Keyword Asian, noodles, snow peas, Stir Fry
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 4
Author Tom

Ingredients

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 teaspoons ginger minced
  • 3 green onions sliced thin with whites and green parts separated
  • 4 cups shredded Napa cabbage any cabbage can be substituted
  • 1 carrot grated or julienned
  • 1 cup sugar snap peas
  • 1 cup broccoli florets with their thinly sliced stalks
  • 1 package Mi Goreng Hot & Spicy Instant Noodles with the seasoning packets see note

Sauce

  • 3 tablespoons hoisin sauce plus additional for serving
  • 1 tablespoon light soy sauce
  • ½ tablespoon dark soy sauce
  • 1 ½ teaspoons rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon brown sugar
  • ½ teaspoon sesame oil
  • ½-1½ teaspoon Spicy chili crisp oil (Lao Gan Ma Spicy Chili Crisp Sauce is a great brand) to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine the sauce ingredients in a small bowl and set aside.
  2. Cook the noodles according to the package directions. Drain, reserving ⅓ cup of the cooking water. Add the seasoning packets to the noodles, stir and set aside.
  3. Heat the vegetable oil in a large wok over medium heat. Add garlic, ginger and the whites of the green onions. Stir fry until fragrant., about 1-2 minutes.
  4. Turn the heat up to high, add the cabbage, sugar snap peas and carrots and stir fry until slightly tender, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Add the sauce, noodles and 2 tablespoons of the reserved cooking water (or more as needed). Toss and stir while cooking until everything is combined and the cabbage is tender, about 4-5 minutes.

  6. Remove from heat and garnish with the remaining green onion and sesame seeds. Drizzle with more Chili oil, additional hoisin or teriyaki sauce if desired.

Recipe Notes

• You can substitute most any ramen, but discard the seasoning packet
• Cooked chicken, pork or shrimp can be added.
• Bok Choy is also an excellent addition to this dish

3 Easy Asian Recipes You Can Make in Under 30 Minutes

Tom

Asian Table Top Serving Table with foodFrom stir-fries to curries, easy Asian cooking offers a wide range of dishes that are both delicious and nutritious. However, many people are intimidated by the idea of cooking Asian food at home, thinking it requires complex techniques and hard-to-find ingredients…I know I used to think that way until I actually gave it a try. The truth is Asian cooking can be simple, easy and quick, with minimal preparation and cooking time. In fact, with the rise of online grocery shopping and international markets, finding ingredients for Asian cooking has never been easier. Many common ingredients, such as soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil, can be found in most supermarkets, while more specialized ingredients can be ordered online or found at specialty stores. If Chinese, Vietnamese or Japanese ingredients aren’t available locally to you, you can order anything from Weee!, the best source on the internet for everything Asian, with more variety and cheaper prices than anywhere else online or even in brick-and-mortar stores, and if you use this link, you’ll get $20 off your first two orders. With a little bit of planning and preparation, anyone can create delicious and authentic Asian meals in the comfort of their own kitchen. So don’t be intimidated and give simple Asian cooking a try – you might be surprised at how easy and rewarding it can be!

Some of the benefits of simple Asian cooking are:

  1. Healthier Meals: Simple Asian cooking often relies on fresh and nutritious ingredients such as vegetables, lean meats, and seafood. By using these ingredients and cooking methods that preserve their natural flavors, you can create healthy and delicious meals that are good for your body.
  2. Saves Time and Money: Many simple Asian recipes are quick and easy to prepare, making them perfect for busy weeknights. Additionally, the ingredients used in Asian cooking tend to be affordable and readily available, helping you save money on groceries.
  3. Delicious Flavors: Asian cooking is known for its bold and distinct flavors that come from the use of spices, herbs, and other seasonings. By following simple Asian recipes, you can create delicious meals that are sure to please your taste buds.
  4. Versatility: Simple Asian cooking offers a wide range of dishes that can be customized to your liking. Whether you prefer spicy or mild flavors, vegetarian or meat-based meals, there are plenty of options to choose from.
  5. Cultural Experience: By exploring simple Asian cooking, you can learn about the unique food cultures of different Asian countries, and gain a better appreciation for the diverse culinary traditions around the world.

If you’re looking for some easy and delicious Asian recipes to try at home, there are plenty of options to choose from. For example, stir-fry dishes are a great choice for busy weeknights as they are quick to make and can be customized to your liking. You can use a variety of vegetables and proteins, such as tofu, chicken, or beef, and add your favorite sauces and spices for added flavor.

Another simple and tasty Asian dish is fried rice, which can be made using leftover rice and a few basic ingredients such as eggs, vegetables, and soy sauce. This is a great way to use up any leftovers you have in the fridge and create a satisfying meal in no time.

If you’re looking for something a bit more adventurous, you could try making sushi rolls at home. While it may seem intimidating at first, with a bit of practice and some basic ingredients such as sushi rice, seaweed sheets, and your favorite fillings, you can create your own delicious and healthy sushi rolls at home.

In addition to being quick and easy to prepare, simple Asian cooking is a great way to add variety to your diet and boost your health. Many Asian dishes are rich in nutrients and antioxidants, thanks to the use of fresh and colorful ingredients such as leafy greens, herbs, and spices.

So, let’s dive in and discover the wonderful world of simple Asian cooking!

Here are the three easy Asian recipe suggestions that are both delicious and nutritious, easy and quick to prepare, and also very cost-effective. These are a great way to start your Asian cooking adventure:

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Vietnamese Chicken Salad

This salad is light yet fulfilling and can be prepared quickly during a lunch break. It's also packed with protein, healthy fats, andfiber, making it a nutritionally beneficial option.

Course Main Course
Cuisine Vietnamese
Keyword Asian, Chicken, freezer friendly, Salad
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  • 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
  • 2 cups mixed greens
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/4 cup fresh mint leaves
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
  • 1/4 cup Vietnamese dressing (mix 1tbsp fish sauce, 1 tbsp lime juice, 1 tbsp honey, and 1 minced garlic clove)

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the chicken, mixed greens, shredded carrots, and shredded red cabbage.

  2. Add the fresh mint leaves, cilantro leaves and chopped peanuts, and toss to combine.

  3. Drizzle the Vietnamese dressing over the salad and toss again.

  4. Serve immediately.

Shrimp and Broccoli Stir Fry
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Stir-Fried Shrimp and Broccoli

This stir-fry dish is easy and quick to prepare, and it's also packed with nutrients from the shrimp and broccoli. Plus, it only requires one pan, making it a great option for busy people who don't have a lot of time.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Chinese
Keyword Asian, Chinese, freezer friendly, Stir Fry
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes

Ingredients

  • 1 lb shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 1 head broccoli cut into florets
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 1 tsp sesame oil
  • 1/2 tsp sugar
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the shrimp, soy sauce, sesame oil, sugar, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the broccoli florets and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Add the shrimp mixture to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the shrimp is cooked through and pink.
  5. Serve hot with steamed rice.
apanese+Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry
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Japanese Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry

This dish is a great source of protein and healthy vegetables, and it's packed with umami flavor from the soy sauce and mirin. Plus, it's easy to prepare and can be made in one pan, making it a convenient option for busy weeknights.
Course Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
Keyword Asian, freezer friendly, Stir Fry, Vegetables
Prep Time 20 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings 4 people

Ingredients

  • 1 lb beef sirloin thinly sliced
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and mushrooms, sliced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 2 tbsp mirin
  • 2 tbsp vegetable oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine the beef slices, soy sauce, mirin, salt, and pepper.
  2. In a large pan or wok, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Add the garlic and stir-fry for a few seconds until fragrant.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until tender-crisp.
  4. Add the beef mixture to the pan and stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes until the beef is cooked through.
  5. Serve hot with steamed rice.

Japanese Cooking – History, Health Benefits and Recipes

Tom

Japanese Cooking - History, Health Benefits and Recipes Japanese Cooking – History, Health Benefits and Recipes

Japanese cooking (Japanese cuisine, also known as “Washoku” 和食 (和食 – 和 meaning ‘Japan’ or ‘harmony,’ 食 meaning ‘food’ or ‘to eat’), has become increasingly popular worldwide for its healthy and delicious dishes. Washoku is a combination of traditional Japanese cooking techniques and modern influences and it refers to the classic Japanese cuisine that focuses on the harmony of ingredients that are both visually appealing and nutritious. In this blog post, we’ll briefly explore the history of Japanese cooking, its health benefits and share four easy-to-make Japanese recipes.

Ever since my fascination with Asian cooking began, I’ve ordered everything I need from Weee!, a great website for buying Japanese ingredients (and all Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese, Filipino and Indian ingredients) at prices that are almost always less than Amazon and Brick and Mortar stores. And if you use this link, you’ll get $20 off your first two orders and free delivery for orders over $49! They offer an incredible array of high-quality ingredients (including everything needed for the recipes below…in fact, everything you need for every recipe), from miso paste and soy sauce to seaweed and rice vinegar, at competitive prices. Their website is easy to use and navigate, and their mobile app is even more convenient. You can find everything you need and make a purchase with just a few clicks. With Weee!, you can be assured that you are getting authentic Japanese ingredients delivered right to your doorstep, saving you time and effort from going to physical stores. Plus, they offer fast and reliable shipping, making it a great option for those who may not have access to Japanese markets in their local area. Overall, Weee! is a fantastic choice for anyone looking to elevate their Japanese cooking game with high-quality ingredients.

History of Japanese Cooking

Japanese cuisine dates back to the Jomon period, around 10,000 BC. During this time, people lived as hunter-gatherers and used fire to cook their food. The introduction of rice cultivation during the Yayoi period (300 BC – 300 AD) marked a significant change in Japanese cuisine. Rice became a staple food, and people began using soybeans to make miso and soy sauce.

During the Heian period (794-1185), Japanese aristocrats began hosting elaborate banquets, where food was not only served but presented as an art form. This era also saw the introduction of Buddhist vegetarianism, which influenced the development of meat-free dishes such as shojin ryori.

The Edo period (1603-1868) was a time of peace and prosperity in Japan, and it marked the development of modern Japanese cuisine. During this period, sushi and tempura were invented, and the use of chopsticks became widespread.

Today, Japanese cuisine is a fusion of traditional and modern cooking techniques. It is heavily influenced by regional ingredients, such as seafood in coastal regions and vegetables in mountainous areas.

Health Benefits of Japanese Cooking

Japanese cuisine is known for its health benefits. Many dishes are low in calories and high in nutrients, making them an excellent choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet. Here are some of the health benefits of Japanese cooking:

  1. High in Nutrients: Japanese dishes are often made with nutrient-rich ingredients such as seafood, tofu, and vegetables. These ingredients are high in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants that are beneficial for overall health.
  2. Low in Calories: Japanese cuisine is known for its low-calorie dishes. Many Japanese dishes are steamed or grilled, which helps to preserve the nutrients in the food while keeping the calories low.
  3. Heart-Healthy: Japanese cuisine is also known for its heart-healthy dishes. The use of fish and soy products, such as tofu and miso, is associated with a lower risk of heart disease.
  4. Boosts Immunity: The use of fermented foods, such as miso and pickles, is common in Japanese cuisine. These foods contain beneficial bacteria that help to boost the immune system.
  5. Fresh, seasonal ingredients: Japanese cooking is known for its use of fresh, seasonal ingredients. This means that the dishes are not only healthier, but they also taste better.
  6. Low in processed foods and unhealthy fats: Japanese cooking is also low in processed foods and unhealthy fats. This makes it a good choice for people who are looking to improve their overall health and well-being.
  7. Beautiful and intricate dishes: Japanese dishes are often works of art, and they can be a joy to both eat and look at. This is one of the reasons why Japanese cuisine is so popular with foodies all over the world.
  8. A great way to learn about Japanese culture: When you cook Japanese dishes, you are not only learning about the ingredients and cooking methods, but you are also learning about the history and traditions of Japan. This can be a great way to connect with your heritage or to learn about another culture.

3 Easy-to-Make Japanese Recipes

Now that we’ve briefly covered the history and health benefits of Japanese cuisine, let’s get to the fun part – cooking! Here are four easy-to-make Japanese recipes that you can try at home: Read More …

How to Make an Air Fryer Your Best Friend in the Kitchen

Tom

Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer

If you’re looking for a kitchen appliance that can do it all, then look no further than the air fryer. I was initially resistant to adding another appliance to my kitchen, but I’m so glad I changed my mind and decided to give the Instant Vortex Plus 6-Quart Air Fryer a try. This, the most highly rated air fryer, is an incredible appliance that can fry, bake, grill, and roast – all with little to no oil. Plus, it’s quick and easy to use, and clean-up is a breeze, making it perfect for busy weeknight dinners or last-minute gatherings.

In this blog post, I’ll give a quick overview of everything you need to know about air fryers – from what they are to the benefits of using one. I’ll also share some of our incredibly simple favorite air fryer recipes that are sure to please the entire family. So, whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s something for everyone!

Read More …

Easy Pork Fried Rice with Edamame, Corn, Broccoli and Carrots

Tom

Pork Fried Rice with Edamame, Corn, Broccoli and CarrotsThis Quick and Easy Pork Fried Rice with Edamame, Corn, Broccoli and Carrots has quickly become one of my favorite go-to recipes. I love to make this when I have leftover pork, especially the day after I make my equally simple and delicious Sous Vide Teriyaki Pork Tenderloin. In fact, when I make the Sous Vide Teriyaki Pork (and I love my Anova), I cook up a batch of white rice, let it cool and stick it in the refrigerator so it’s ready-to-go when I make this stir fry a day or two later. This dish, like all stir-fries, is better when made with day-old rice. A fresh batch of warm (or even lukewarm) rice tends not to fry well and can result in soggy, mushy sticky clumps (doesn’t that sound appetizing!). So leftover, well chilled refrigerated rice is definitely the way to go when making fried rice. If you’re in a rush and you crave pork fried rice tonight and you don’t have any leftover rice in the frig, just cook up some rice, spread it out on a baking sheet and stick in the refrigerator for an hour or so to let it dry out and chill.

As for the vegetables, the combination of edamame, corn, broccoli and carrots really works well together, but you can use pretty much whatever you have leftover in the refrigerator. This is a great dish for cleaning out the leftovers in your vegetable drawer. Just make sure that you cut the vegetables to roughly the same size so they cook evenly. And don’t forget the broccoli stalks. Peel them (or not) and slice them in quarter inch thick coins (or if their really big, half moons). I think a lot of people tend not to use the stalks, but they add a tasty, crispy crunch to the stir fry, or any dish for that matter. And if you have some frozen peas in the freezer, you can just toss in a handful when adding the other vegetables…no need to cook separately. Read More …

Everything You Can Do With a Can of Chickpeas | Serious Eats

Tom

I love chickpeas…they’re inexpensive, healthy and incredibly versatile. Awhile back I posted my favorite recipe for Crispy Roasted Garbanzo Beans, but here are some other great ways to use them, courtesy of one of my favorite websites, Serious Eats. Follow the link below to check them out.

Source: Everything You Can Do With a Can of Chickpeas | Serious Eats

Crispy Spicy Oven-Baked Garlic French Fries

Tom

A few months ago I posted my favorite oven baked french fry recipe…that one was great (it was for steak-cut fries), but I’ve been experimenting with oven baked fries since then and this recipe is even better…it turns out thinner, crunchier, crisper fries with way more flavor. The secret is par baking the potatoes in the microwave for a couple of minutes in a garlicky oil and then coating them with a spicy cornstarch mixture before baking them in the oven. It sounds a lot more involved then it is…it’s actually simple, fast and definitely worth trying. It is also very forgiving, so feel free to experiment with different spices and quantities…as long as you dry the potatoes well after soaking, and keep an eye on them as they cook, they’ll  come out great. Pair the fries with a super-melty cheeseburger topped with caramelized onions and you’ll never want to go out for burgers and fries again, ’cause it doesn’t get an better than this.

Please click here for the printable recipe.

Quinoa with Sautéed Vegetables and Caramelized Onions

Tom

Quinoa (keen-wah). If you haven’t tried it, you really should give it shot. It’s a pseudocereal with a slightly nutty flavor, which makes it a great alternative to rice. Quinoa is extremely nutritious and has a very high protein content (12%–18%), making it a healthy choice for vegetarians, vegans and athletes.  Unlike wheat or rice, which is low in lysine, quinoa contains a balanced set of essential amino acids, making it an unusually complete protein source. And the best part about it is…it tastes great! For this recipe, we prepared it like you would rice and mixed it with sautéed vegetables and caramelized onions for a quick, delicious healthy meal. You can use any vegetables you like in this dish…everything seems to go well with quinoa and you can find it just about anywhere these days…Nature’s Earthly Choice is a great brand.

Please click here for a printable recipe.

Oven Baked Spicy Crispy French Fries

Tom

crispy spicy oven friesEveryone loves french fries, but deep frying at home is messy and the clean up sucks. These oven baked fries are just as tasty, a little bit healthier and way easier to make and clean up after than the deep-fried variety. The secret is the pre-soak that removes some of the starch and helps the fries to crisp up on the outside while staying tender and moist on the inside. Pair these with my Oven Baked Buffalo Chicken Wings and you have a great finger-licking good, faux deep-fried, quasi-healthy meal that everyone will love. If you prefer thinner, crispier garlicky oven baked fries, please click here.

Please click here for the printable recipe.

Crispy Baked Kale Chips – Another Simply Delicious Healthy Snack

Tom

Another simple, healthy snack that you’re guaranteed to love – a great alternative to potato chips (although they’re really good, too!)

  • Tear the kale leaves into approx. 2″ bite size pieces (discard any thick stems)
  • Wash and dry the pieces thoroughly (a salad spinner is best for this)
  • Toss the dried leaves with the ¼ cup olive oil and ¾ tsp of kosher salt, coating all pieces well
  • Place them on a baking sheet and bake in a 350Ëš oven for about 10-13 minutes ’til crumbly and crisp
  • Let cool and serve…

If you like, when you remove them from the oven, you can also sprinkle the crispy kale chips with some lime zest, cayenne, lemon pepper, Parmesan, chile powder, garlic powder or just about any other flavor or mix of spices, to add a personal touch.